Nets close draft with UCLA sharpshooter Tyler Bilodeau at No. 43

The Nets used the 2026 NBA Draft to sharpen their perimeter spacing and shot-making, then closed the night by selecting UCLA forward Tyler Bilodeau with the No. 43 pick in the second round. Brooklyn had already made major moves earlier, including taking Louisville guard Mikel Brown Jr. at No. 6 and agreeing in principle to acquire Iowa State forward Joshua Jefferson’s draft rights (No. 28) from the Minnesota Timberwolves, as a deal involving Julius Randle awaits finalization. The Timberwolves used the No. 33 pick Brooklyn sent out to take Duke shooter Isaiah Evans. Bilodeau, 22, averaged 17.6 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.1 assists at UCLA while shooting 51.8% overall, 46.4% from 3-point range and 87.3% from the line. Listed at 6-foot-8-plus and 228 pounds, he provides a stretch-four profile, complementing a young roster with multiple lineup options.