The Brooklyn Nets are opting to receive the Philadelphia 76ers' first-round selection in 2023 rather than the No. 23 pick they would be entitled to this year from the James Harden and Ben Simmons trade, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Brooklyn received two first-rounders in the February blockbuster that sent Harden to Philadelphia: one in 2022, and another in 2027 (protected between Nos. 1-8). However, they had the right to defer the 2022 pick to 2023 instead.
The Nets reportedly had to notify the league of their decision by Wednesday.
By pushing back the incoming pick, the Nets can use it in potential trades within the next year. Its value could also rise if the 76ers don't match their regular-season finish this year.
Philadelphia, meanwhile, cannot include this year's No. 23 selection in any deals until June 23, the day of the draft, according to ESPN's Bobby Marks.
Due to the "Stepien Rule," teams cannot trade away future first-rounders if it potentially leaves them without one in back-to-back drafts. Beyond the picks Philadelphia sent the Nets, the 76ers also owe the Oklahoma City Thunder their first-round pick in 2025. However, the 2022 pick stops being considered a future selection on the day of this year's draft.
Philadephia cannot trade another first-round pick of its own until 2029.
Brooklyn acquired Simmons, Seth Curry, and Andre Drummond, as well as the aforementioned draft compensation, in exchange for Harden and Paul Millsap at the Feb. 10 trade deadline. Simmons did not appear in a game for the Nets due to a lingering disc issue in his back.