The Brooklyn Nets have kicked off the season with unexpected vigor, defying the odds and predictions of a tanking year. As a fan, it’s thrilling to witness the team outperform expectations, including a 119-106 home win over the Memphis Grizzlies. The Nets, initially pegged as underdogs, have shown resilience and skill, making it clear that they will not be a “scheduled win” on the schedule this year.
The narrative around the Nets was supposed to be one of rebuilding, but the team’s performance suggests otherwise. With a win against the Grizzlies, the Nets have demonstrated that they are more than capable of competing at a high level. This success is largely attributed to the outstanding play of Dennis Schröder. His ability to lead the team, both in scoring and play-making, has been pivotal. Schröder’s top-five ranking in assists and top-ten in three-point percentage highlight his impact on the court. His leadership and experience are invaluable, especially for a team with young talents like Cam Thomas and Zaire Williams.
Schröder’s performance raises an intriguing question: what should the Nets do with him as the season progresses? His presence is crucial for the development of younger players, providing them with a reliable point guard who can organize the offense and set the pace. However, his play also complicates the Nets’ draft strategy. Trading Schröder could potentially derail the team’s current momentum and hinder the growth of players like Thomas and Williams. It’s a delicate balance between maintaining competitiveness and pursuing long-term goals.
Under the first year head coach Jordi Fernandez, the Nets’ offensive system has evolved significantly from last season,
embracing a more dynamic and fluid style of play. It serves as a reminder that how fans view a player- their ability to impact the game, to produce at a high-level, is tied heavily to scheme and coaching. This new approach has unlocked the potential of players like Schröder, who excels in pick-and-roll situations, creating opportunities for bigs like Noah Clowney and Nicolas Claxton and Ziaire Williams. The constant motion and strategic positioning have made the Nets a formidable offensive unit, even without a traditional superstar.
The aforementioned Ziaire Williams has also expanded expectations on his game, showcasing defensive prowess and versatility. Williams has used his athleticism and instincts to disrupt opponents and contribute on both ends of the floor, capped off Wednesday night with an excellent. “revenge game” against his former team.
As the season unfolds, the Nets face the challenge of balancing their immediate success with their long-term vision. The decisions made regarding Schröder and other veterans will be crucial in shaping the team’s future. For now, fans can enjoy the unexpected thrill of a team that refuses to be defined by expectations.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Brooklyn Nets’ season, tune into the Locked On Nets podcast for this and much more.
