NBA: Ranking every starting lineup heading into 2017-18

HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 25: James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets shouts at Chris Paul #3 of the Los Angeles Clippers after a foul during their game at the Toyota Center on February 25, 2015 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images) /

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NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 29: Head coach Kenny Atkinson of the Brooklyn Nets and Isaiah Whitehead #15 look on against the Los Angeles Clippers in the first half at Barclays Center on November 29, 2016 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

27. Brooklyn Nets

Projected Starters: D’Angelo Russell, Jeremy Lin, DeMarre Carroll, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Timofey Mozgov

Possible Starters: Allen Crabbe, Trevor Booker

Brooklyn has proceeded cautiously since the disastrous trade in 2013 that stripped the franchise of multiple prized lottery picks. However, fans have a reason to be somewhat optimistic from here on out. The Nets conceded their pick for next offseason in the 2013 trade.

Despite all the suffering, they did manage to assemble a more respectable roster this season. Russell did not exactly turn heads in his two years with the Lakers but has an excellent opportunity to prove otherwise in this new phase of his career.

Consensus: The Nets should be more competitive with their much improved roster. However, the infamous trade will continue to haunt them for the time being.

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