Predictions For Rondae Hollis-Jefferson

Mar 21, 2015; Portland, OR, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (23) celebrates against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the first half in the third round of the 2015 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

On draft night, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson‘s name was called by the Portland Trail Blazers with the No. 23 overall pick. The announcement from Adam Silver followed soon after that he would be included in a trade that would send him to the Brooklyn Nets along with Steve Blake. The trade would also include Mason Plumlee and the draft rights to Pat Connaughton being sent to Portland.

The trade was somewhat bittersweet for most Nets fans because Plumlee was evolving into a very solid back up to Brook Lopez at the center position. Bringing in Hollis-Jefferson gives the Nets exactly the type of player they need for next season and for the long run. Going against Joe Johnson every day in practice should help speed up his development to prepare him for the regular season.

This season will most likely be Johnson’s last in a Brooklyn uniform, so the hope is that Hollis-Jefferson can prove to the organization that he will be able to take on a starting role in his sophomore season. There are huge adjustments that have to be made by players who come out of college into the NBA. The physicality and speed of the game are sometimes a major shock to rookies, and especially when the player is a first-round pick, a lot is expected of them.

Nets fans were able to get a peak at Hollis-Jefferson’s game in summer league. There was some inconsistent play throughout on his part, but overall he proved that he will provide tremendous energy off the bench. When breaking down the current roster, bench production will be a huge concern for the Nets, but Hollis-Jefferson will be one of the bright spots without a doubt.

Let’s take a look on what he will bring to Brooklyn next season.

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