Brooklyn Nets: 5 Things To Watch During Training Camp

Apr 22, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Shelvin Mack (8) defends Brooklyn Nets forward Joe Johnson (7) during the second quarter of game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Liles-USA TODAY Sports

1. Johnson’s Role

Joe Johnson is coming off his worst season since 2002-03, which was only his third year in the league. Now entering his 15th season, there has been a slow decline statistically that brings up the question of whether or not he should be a vital part of the Nets’ offense. Johnson definitely isn’t the player that used to be when he would make defenders look foolish as he starred for the Atlanta Hawks, but he isn’t one of those veterans who is no longer effective.

There is no question that Johnson will be a huge part of the Nets success this season. Brook Lopez is set to be the number one option in terms of scoring in the low post, but when it comes to perimeter scoring, Johnson is the guy. The Nets don’t have anyone else that can still break their defender down and create their own shots. Although Johnson is getting older, he’s still one of the most skilled perimeter scorers today.

A lack of production last season and climbing up another ring in the age ladder has raised ideas if it would be most useful for the Nets as a team to have Johnson be a scoring threat off the bench. However, that would be a terrible decision.  A 15-year veteran that still has above average offensive skills on a team that lacks them overall should not come off the bench.  Johnson is still a big time player. He might not be as great as he was four to five years ago, but with the roster the Nets have, he certainly belongs in the starting lineup.

It will be interesting to see if there is a slight role change once training camp is in full swing.

Next: 2. Change of Style?