Brooklyn Nets: 5 Things To Watch During Training Camp

Jun 25, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (Arizona) pump his fist after being selected as the number twenty-three overall pick to the Portland Trailblazers in the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

4. How Does The Rookie Fit In?

The Nets traded for Rondae Hollis-Jefferson on draft night because they need a player that can both be a strong defender and drive to the rim and finish strong. Hollis-Jefferson is coming into the perfect situation as a rookie, because he won’t be forced to start. He will be able to come off the bench and deliver quality minutes, while learning from veterans like Joe Johnson and Jarrett Jack on how to be an effective player.

The predictions for Hollis-Jefferson are to come off the bench and play in the range of 19-25 minutes per game and put up an average of 7-9 points per game and 4-6 rebounds per game. These numbers could certainly rise if he proves he deserves more minutes. If Hollins experiments with a small-ball lineup, it is possible that Johnson could be moved to the four with Hollis-Jefferson inserted at the three.

No matter what way they play, Hollis-Jefferson is going to be effective. He isn’t the type of player that needs the ball in his hands to have an impact on the game.  His non-stop hustle will earn him offensive rebounds and put-back dunks. Keep an eye on him during training camp and see if his energy can help ignite players around him.

Next: 5. Bargnani's Duties