Nets 2023-24 season report card: Grading the players and head coach

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After a 32-50 regular season, it’s time to take a look at the 2023-24 Nets and hand out grades for individual players, coaches and the team as a whole…

Dennis Schroder: B-

Arriving in a trade deadline deal for Spencer Dinwiddie, Schroder was somewhat effective as Brooklyn’s starting point guard the last two months of the season. He is best suited in a role as a quality backup.

Cam Thomas: B+

The third-year guard more than doubled his scoring average (22.6 points) and had four 40-point games. He was more efficient despite taking on a larger role. To take the next step, Thomas has to improve as a playmaker and on defense to justify being in a primary role.

Mikal Bridges: C-

Brooklyn’s hopes of a playoff run lied with Bridges building off of last season’s great finish. That didn’t happen as his scoring numbers and efficiency plummeted. It’s clear after this campaign that Bridges is better suited as a second or third option on a good team.

Dorian Finney-Smith: C+

As a 3-and-D player, Finney-Smith’s success is connected to who he plays with. While with the Dallas Mavericks, the forward played often in a five-out system with one of the best passers in Luka Doncic. Brooklyn’s lack of playmaking impacted his effectiveness.

Nic Claxton: B

Claxton was solid as a center, averaging a double-double and finishing top-10 in blocks. He’s still somewhat limited on the offensive end as an outside shooter and ball-handler. Claxton’s unrestricted free agency is Brooklyn’s largest offseason question.

Cameron Johnson: C

Like Bridges, the Nets needed Johnson to step up. After signing a four-year, $94.5 million deal, the 28-year-old had a so-so season. He also missed 24 games due to injury.

Dennis Smith Jr.: B

In his seventh season, Smith has solidified himself as a disruptive defender. Brooklyn gave up nearly six points per 100 possessions fewer when he was on the floor versus when he was not. The only thing in Smith’s way is the lack of a consistent jump shot.

Lonnie Walker IV: B

One of the few Nets capable of attacking downhill, Walker was a solid scoring option off the bench this season. The 6-foot-4 guard will be an…

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/nets-2023-24-season-report-170000904.html

Author : SNY

Publish date : 2024-04-15 17:00:00

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