NBA Brooklyn Nets

Brooklyn Nets’ First Month Grade

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By @nick_villano

Brooklyn Nets

John Geliebter-USA TODAY Sports

The Brooklyn Nets came into this season with much lower expectations than they entered last season with. They were one of the biggest players in the offseason, obtaining Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, among others, and becoming top players in the Eastern Conference. This offseason, they focused on replacing the departed Jason Kidd. They found a great head coach in Lionel Hollins.

Even with the lesser expectations, they have not started off this season on a good foot. They are currently 6-8, barely holding onto the eighth and final spot in the Eastern playoff race.

Deron Williams has been the best player on this team all season long. He leads the team with 18.4 points per game. He also leads the team in assists, with 6.6 helpers a game. He is the only reason the Nets are still in the playoff conversation, and not closer to their cross-town rivals.

The return of Brook Lopez was supposed to be a major boost to this roster. It would be like getting the best scoring center off the market, but he was already on the team. He is scoring about five points less per game than what is usually expected of him. The team needs him to score close to 20 per game if they are going to be a dark horse candidate in what is a wide-open Eastern Conference.

They have been getting consistent scoring off the bench. Jarrett Jack and Mirza Teletovic both average double digits with a combined one start on the season. They have both been very good acquisitions for this team.

Overall, there should be some optimism that the Nets can turn this season around. They have some good pieces to try and compete. With the Cleveland Cavaliers struggling like they are, the conference could go to anyone when it’s all said and done. Hollins is a good coach, and he will figure this team out. For now, their defense has them a below-average team. They cannot continue to allow over 100 points per game. They need to get better to earn a better grade.

First Month Grade: C-

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