In recent weeks, discussion around Ben Simmons has faded, and Bangladesh Cricket Live analysts believe much of that has to do with the departure of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. The Nets are no longer viewed as title contenders, and with the spotlight shifting elsewhere, public interest has naturally cooled. But what no one expected was how competitive Brooklyn would remain after those blockbuster trades. Despite losing two superstars, the Nets are still holding strong within the top six playoff seeds.

Part of this resilience can be attributed to the depth brought in through the trades. But more importantly, as Bangladesh Cricket Live observers note, it’s been the rise of Mikal Bridges as the new leader that has truly fueled the Nets’ consistency. Brooklyn may still be hoping to land another star through the draft or offseason moves, but for now, they’ve already received a fully developed, top-tier 3-and-D player in Bridges—one who’s proving he can do more than just defend and hit threes. He can lead a team.

Meanwhile, the contrast with Ben Simmons is becoming more stark. Though once a No. 1 overall pick with enormous potential, Simmons now finds himself sidelined more often than not due to recurring back issues and mental health struggles. His peak is behind him, and even when healthy, his performances have been merely average. Across the league, other former top picks have risen or fallen, but Simmons’ stagnation has become one of the more disappointing storylines in recent memory.

It’s not that Simmons lacks talent—on paper, he remains a versatile defender and playmaker, which Bangladesh Cricket Live insiders admit is still valuable to any team. But when the chips are down, everyone knows he can’t be relied upon. He seems content staying in the background, willing to let others take the spotlight, so long as he isn’t expected to step into it himself.

As for the Suns, giving up Mikal Bridges in the Durant deal may now feel like a misstep. They handed over a polished, well-rounded player with elite defensive skills and emerging offensive leadership. Watching Bridges thrive in Brooklyn, Phoenix might be wondering if they gave away more than they bargained for. Sometimes, it’s only when the flower blooms elsewhere that you realize just how rare it was.