The Brooklyn Nets are battling to maintain a competitive edge, even amid challenges that have led to a 3-7 skid over their last 10 games. Despite these struggles, GM Sean Marks emphasized the organization’s commitment to fostering a winning culture and developing talent. However, a critical roster imbalance has emerged as a stumbling block in achieving those goals.
Too Many Wings, Not Enough Point Guards
As players return from preseason injuries, Brooklyn’s depth on the wing has become a logjam. The roster features several capable contributors at the forward position:
- Cameron Johnson
- Dorian Finney-Smith
- Trendon Watford
- Noah Clowney
- Ziaire Williams
- Jalen Wilson
- Bojan Bogdanovic (once healthy)
This glut not only limits playing time but also creates challenges in finding a balanced rotation. Compounding the issue, big men Nic Claxton and Day’Ron Sharpe, when healthy, reduce opportunities for smaller lineups, further congesting the rotation.
Conversely, the Nets lack depth at point guard. Outside of Dennis Schroder, who has carried the primary playmaking duties, Brooklyn has no true floor general.
Schroder Shouldering the Load
Schroder has been a revelation for the Nets, starting the season strong with near-All-Star numbers of 20 points and 7 assists per game. However, the wear is showing as his minutes balloon to 34.3 per game—well above his career average of 27.4. His effectiveness as both a playmaker and a shooter (40.8% from three) could be maximized if he shared responsibilities with another true point guard.
Players like Cam Thomas, Shake Milton, and Keon Johnson are more scoring-oriented and lack the natural facilitating instincts required to run the offense consistently. Ben Simmons, previously considered a primary playmaker, has struggled to make an impact this season, leaving Schroder as the lone orchestrator.
Internal Solutions Limited
The Nets’ only immediate internal option resides in the G-League. Killian Hayes, a former seventh-overall pick, has shown promise with the Long Island Nets, averaging 13.6 points, 6.4 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game. While Hayes could provide relief, Marks has not indicated any imminent roster changes.
Moving Forward
Addressing this imbalance will be pivotal if the Nets hope to sustain their competitiveness. Whether through a trade, free-agent signing, or a G-League call-up, Brooklyn must alleviate the pressure on Schroder and resolve the mismatch in their roster construction.
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