The 2017-18 Brooklyn Nets are probably not good enough to make any noise in the Eastern Conference, but they sure are fun to watch
Early on in the 2017-18 NBA season, the Brooklyn Nets are not only playing well, but they are fun to watch. They have a distinct identity and they are committed to playing for coach Kenny Atkinson.
In the aftermath of the disastrous trade with the Celtics in 2013, it was hard to see the Nets ever becoming relevant again. But, after handing the keys of the franchise over to Sean Marks, the Nets have embraced a long-term rebuilding plan.
Marks, the former assistant general manger of the Spurs, has looked to instill a winning culture in the franchise. This new culture, along with a new on-court philosophy, has made Brooklyn a more compelling team to watch both on and off the floor.
The Nets have assembled a roster that fits coach Kenny Atkinson’s system. They play at an extremely fast pace and they attempt 3-pointers at a high rate. Last season, they didn’t have the proper personnel to execute. They had the fourth highest 3-point attempt rate but ranked only 26th in percentage, making a mere 33.8% of their long-range shots.
The difference between the 2016-17 Nets and the 17-18 version is the roster.
While, unfortunately, Jeremy Lin went down with an injury in the season opener, there are a few other holdovers. In addition to these returners, Brooklyn has made some key additions.