Nothin' But Nets
Fansided

Nets: Five Reasonable Free Agent Targets in 2017

By Tj Porreca

Feb 19, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets new general manager Sean Marks speaks to the media during a press conference before a game against the New York Knicks at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 19, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets new general manager Sean Marks speaks to the media during a press conference before a game against the New York Knicks at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
5 of 5
Next

Shaun Livingston – Golden State Warriors

It wasn’t that long ago, during the 2013-14 season, to be exact, that Shaun Livingston played for the Brooklyn Nets. He started 54 games, averaging 8.3 points in 26 minutes per game. After the season, Livingston departed to the Golden State Warriors, and has since became a key role player in their success.

This match may be unlikely for a few reasons, but there is reason to consider it from the Nets’ perspective as well.

First, the Warriors don’t seem inclined to let Livingston go, as he was one of the few players they chose to bring back after the roster exodus due to Kevin Durant’s signing. Next, Livingston fits really well in the Warriors’ system, and has enjoyed a great deal of success. However, it may be tougher next season for Golden State to retain Livingston, as Kevin Durant will opt out for a new max, and Stephen Curry will get a massive max deal as well.

This year, the Nets are going with Randy Foye as the veteran presence who figures to see time at both guard spots. That’s a role Livingston could fill nicely in 2017, or he could start when necessary. Brooklyn brought Livingston in at a time when his future was far less-certain than it is now. Livingston is now an NBA champion, but a Brooklyn reunion could benefit the Nets in 2017.

Next: Brooklyn Deserves All Star Weekend

2017 may be a bit soon to expect the Nets to be players for major free agents. Players such as Blake Griffin, Russell Westbrook, and yes, hypothetically Stephen Curry will be available next offseason. Curry, in what is a foregone conclusion, is going back to the Warriors. The Thunder are waiting on pins and needless to see what Westbrook does after losing Durant, and Griffin has been in trade rumors as he battles a leg injury. The point being that none of the big names will be in play for the Nets next year. But the Nets can still find impact pieces next year, and that’s what Sean Marks and his team will set out to do.