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Funny how that history thing can repeat itself.
A decade ago, the New Jersey Nets traded for a superstar point guard from a Western Conference team, a move that led them to consecutive NBA Finals appearances. His name is Jason Kidd.
On Wednesday morning, the New Jersey Nets traded for a superstar point guard from a Western Conference team, a move they hope will lead them back to the promised land. His name is Deron Williams.
LeBron James threw down the gauntlet, telling ESPN.com that the balance of power in the NBA is shifting to the east.
Such is reaction around the NBA to the Jazz's decision to trade Williams to the Nets. Opinions have been all over the place — except for in New Jersey, where unbridled joy has been the operative phrase.
"This is big," New Jersey general manager Billy King said. "I look back when we were able to get Jason Kidd. You win with very good point guards. Jason took this franchise in a whole new direction and I think Deron can do the same."
With Williams and Carmelo Anthony going to New Jersey and New York, respectively, the Eastern Conference has received a boost in star power, similar to Amare Stoudemire moving to the Knicks this past summer, or when Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen were traded to the Boston Celtics. James said that he was excited about the transactions.
"Everyone's bringing their talents to the East," James said. "It's going to be fun. Teams are going to have to load up because the competition level is rising."
The Nets don't have much to go with Williams, but they do have Brook Lopez, a gangly 7-footer with a talent for scoring. Without Williams, Lopez has established himself as one of the better young post players in the NBA. With Williams now aboard, Lopez thinks that his potential is limitless.