NBA Rumors: Brooklyn Nets looking to add overseas star to roster ahead of 2024-25 season

The Brooklyn Nets are reportedly closing in on overseas star Yongxi Cui. Cui is a 21-year-old, 6'8 "guard from China who could debut in the NBA next season.

The Nets hope to fill one of their two remaining two-way spots with Cui ahead of the 2024-25 season.

Cui first caught scouts' attention after graduating from the NBA Global Academy. He then returned to China to play in the Chinese Basketball Association, logging two seasons for the Guangzhou Lions.

Cui averaged 15.6 points per game this past CBA season before entering his name in the 2024 NBA Draft. However, the overseas standout went undrafted.

After going undrafted, Cui played for the Portland Trailblazers in the NBA Summer League. Despite limited playing time, the Chinese star displayed his shooting ability, scoring six points in his Summer League debut in just eight minutes of action. Cui also made 23 of 25 three-pointers during Elite camp this offseason.

Cui is highly touted for his three-point shooting and defensive ability and is an enticing prospect as he gears up to enter the NBA.

Nets reportedly interested in Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler

Yongxi Cui isn't the only player the Nets are looking at, as reports indicate Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler could be on Brooklyn's radar.

Butler might consider free agency next summer if he cannot reach an agreement with Miami this season. Butler has a $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season but is also eligible for an extension.

Brooklyn cannot contend like Miami, but the Heat star reportedly likes the Nets, per Brian Lews of the New York Post.

Miami is in no hurry to finalize a deal with Butler but should remain in play to sign him, given their ability to contend immediately.

Butler, 34, could cash a significant payday if he tests free agency. However, he would enter a worse situation in Brooklyn. The Nets recently dove head-first into their rebuild by trading Mikal Bridges in July and shouldn't contend for a playoff spot anytime soon.