The Nets have dubbed Caris LeVert “Baby Durant,” as much for his play as for his friendship with the Warriors star. And locking up the budding young guard with a contract extension would be wise, whether or not it helps land Kevin Durant in free agency.

The Nets opted not to extend D’Angelo Russell’s contract last summer and will let him hit restricted free agency. Taking the same path with LeVert could be a mistake for many reasons, not the least of which is his relationship with the free agent expected to top their wish list.

LeVert was the Nets’ best player at both the start and the end of this breakthrough season. He was their leading scorer before dislocating his foot, and led them again in their first-round series against the 76ers. Despite being under control for next season, LeVert can work out an extension July 1 (even though it wouldn’t go into effect until 2020-21).

“I’d love to play here as long as possible,” LeVert said. “I love the city of Brooklyn, I love the coaches and the team here. So whatever we decide to do, I’ll be happy with.”

Doing so now could be at a more team-friendly price than if LeVert — who has played just 168 of a possible 246 games in his three NBA seasons — stays healthy next season and blossoms into an All-Star like Russell did.

The Nets have become increasingly confident that, unlike during his last free agency, they at least have a chance to land Durant. And a source told The Post he would like to play alongside LeVert.

“It’s like a big brother,” said LeVert, adding he views Durant as a mentor. “He reached out when I was in college. Obviously we had similar injuries and the same surgeon.

“He’s obviously played on a huge stage right now repeatedly for a couple of years, playing in the Finals. He gives a lot of good advice.”

Durant and LeVert share not only the unfortunate bond of foot woes, but surgeries performed by Nets foot and ankle specialist Dr. Martin O’Malley. Durant reached out to LeVert when he had surgery as a Michigan senior. They since have become close, working out together in the summers.

“He’s his own guy,” LeVert said. “He’s obviously in the middle of a season right now. He’s trying to chase a championship.

“Whatever he does, I’ll be happy for him.”

LeVert spoke last month about how Brooklyn would be intriguing to Durant.

“I don’t think superstars, especially Kevin, want to be the one who has to carry the whole team, the full load on his own,” LeVert said. “He’s in his 30s now, so he definitely wants to go to a team that has a good core, has a good culture, has good guys on the team: And we fit all those categories.”

Current Nets veterans could be victims of the team’s big-name hunting, but acknowledge it’s the team’s next logical step.

“You definitely need stars to go far in the playoffs. I definitely think adding a star to this organization would definitely take it further,” Ed Davis said.

“If you want to start talking about championships, we’re a young talented group but you’ve also got to bring a really, really talented player. That’s the reality,” DeMarre Carroll said. “You’ve got to have a game-changer. That’s what Brooklyn is going to try to do this year.”

Jarrett Allen said he’ll likely play in summer league.

Owner Mikhail Prokhorov weighed in after the playoff run.

“I’d like to thank Sean Marks, Kenny Atkinson and Brett Yormark, all of our players, coaching staff and business office for their incredible effort this season,” Prokhorov said in a statement. “You’ve put in the sweat and it paid off with a playoff spot when few believed we would get there.

“More importantly, it’s clear that the Nets are a team building a winning culture and our future is bright. So enjoy a good rest. Can’t wait to see what happens next season.”