Breaking Down the Brooklyn Nets’ Offense

Dec 14, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson talks to Nets point guard Spencer Dinwiddie (8) during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 14, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson talks to Nets point guard Spencer Dinwiddie (8) during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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Dec 14, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson talks to Nets point guard Spencer Dinwiddie (8) during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 14, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson talks to Nets point guard Spencer Dinwiddie (8) during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

In Kenny Atkinson‘s first season as head coach, the Brooklyn Nets‘ offense has become modern. In creating this offense, Atkinson drew upon various coaching influences to create a player friendly read-and-attack system.

The Brooklyn Nets underwent a complete makeover this season. Along with the signings of key veterans like Jeremy Lin and Trevor Booker, General Manager Sean Marks hired Kenny Atkinson from the Atlanta Hawks.

Even with the addition of new players, the Nets continue to struggle, currently standing as the worst team in the league. However, Marks and several sources around the league speak highly of Atkinson’s work so far.

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The Nets’ offense is a glimpse into the future. Brooklyn currently leads the league in pace and also rank highly in several other offense-volume numbers. The system Atkinson installed will likely be used even with roster turnover in future seasons.

In general, Kenny Atkinson’s offense emphasizes ball movement, spacing, and teamwork. In half-court sets, there are no set plays. There is only an initial movement. From there, the Nets on the court have to read the defense to find the best shot available. The possibilities for the offense are seemingly endless. For a full, detailed breakdown of the Nets’ offense, be sure to read my debut piece featured in The Brooklyn Game.