NBA Draft: New Jersey Nets Add Scoring, Rebounding

Last season, the New Jersey Nets were 17th in rebounding and at times, had trouble creating shots and finishing. General Manager Billy King must have realized this as he appears to have filled needs in both areas in last nights draft.

The Nets were sitting and watching, waiting for their 27th overall pick to approach. As it got closer, they saw one of their top players was still available. King decided he did not want to wait any longer and traded up two spots with the Boston Celtics to acquire MarShon Brooks, a shooting guard from Providence College.

Brooks was thought by many to be the best scorer in this years draft. Some have even called him “The Next Kobe Bryant.” While they may be lofty expectations, Brooks certainly is a capable scorer. The comparisons are warranted.

The 6-foot-5 guard has tremendous athleticism and ability to create his own shot or get to the hoop . Last season at Providence, Brooks averaged 24.6 points per game, often while facing double teams.

In addition to his scoring, his athleticism enables him to play solid defense as well. Brooks can create offensive opportunities on the defensive end of the floor. He averaged 1.5 blocks and 1.2 steals last season.

Brooks was an excellent pick at 25th overall and should fit in very nicely playing alongside star point guard Deron Williams.

In the second round, 36th overall, the Nets selected Jordan Williams, a forward from Maryland University. Williams is a double-double machine. The 6-foot-10 power forward averaged 16.9 points and 11.3 rebounds per game last season as a Sophomore. Williams led the ACC in rebounding.

This off-season, Williams worked out hard and got his body in top shape. The Nets took notice and obviously feel he can help Brook Lopez in the paint and on the glass. He has durability and endurance as he played an average of 32.5 minutes per game for Maryland.

Sometimes teams are so concerned with filling needs that they don’t necessarily get the best talent available. King did a great job of filling needs with talented players. Williams is a big body the Nets need to help in the rebounding department while Brooks has the potential to be a big time scorer and should fit in nicely with guards Deron Williams and Anthony Morrow.

Note: To acquire Brooks with the 25th pick, the Nets traded their 27th overall pick and a 2014 second-round draft choice to the Boston Celtics.