Brooklyn Nets: Kenny Atkinson is making the Nets fun again

The Brooklyn Nets are fun again

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 20: Spencer Dinwiddie #8 of the Brooklyn Nets and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson #24 celebrate the Nets' 126-121 win over the Orlando Magic during their game at Barclays Center on October 20, 2017 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 Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

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NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 20: D’Angelo Russell #1 of the Brooklyn Nets reacts during the Nets’ 126-121 win against the Orlando Magic in the second half during their game at Barclays Center on October 20, 2017 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 Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

Potential All-Star

D’Angelo Russell had an incredibly tumultuous tenure in Los Angeles. Russell is a gifted offensive player but questions about his maturity and leadership skills spoiled his stay in LA. The Lakers shipped him and Timofey Mozgov to the Nets for Brook Lopez on an expiring contract and the 27th overall pick in the 2017 Draft.

A change of scenery might be just what Russell needed. He has looked comfortable, confident and capable in his first few games in Brooklyn. He has shown his new team why he was so highly regarded coming out of Ohio State and eventually drafted second overall in 2015.

He is a dynamic pick-and-roll ball handler who has the ability to both score and facilitate. He can either get to his spot for a mid-range jumper or set up teammates for an open look. His presence has added an extra element to the Nets offense that has been enjoyable to watch.

Russell is also another quality 3-point shooter who can help space the floor.

He also did this:

Russell has embraced his second chance thus far. It will be fun to see him to grow alongside the rest of the Nets’ core. If he continues to play at this level, an All-Star bid might not be out of the question in a few years. He might even get the nod this year if he puts up big numbers in a weak Eastern Conference.

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