4. Joe Harris
2016-2017 Season Stats: 50 GP, 8.4 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 1.1 APG
Joe Harris was relatively unknown with Brooklyn Nets fans before signing with the team this offseason. His addition has been a positive one, as he has become instant offense in the second unit. He has battled some nagging injuries this season that have slowed him down some, but when healthy, he is productive.
Harris’ three-point shot is his strength. He is good at shooting off screens and making spot-up jumpers, but struggles to create his own shot. He is a good-sized guard, but like Hamilton, does not use his size to his advantage as often as he should.
On defense, Harris lacks the lateral quickness and athleticism needed to stay in front of opponents. He allows quicker guards to drive to the rim too often, giving them free lanes to the basket. However, Harris makes up for his lack of abilities by not giving up on plays and continuing to work when beaten.
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What Harris lacks in athleticism, he makes up for in pure heart and hustle. He never takes a play off and always challenges for 50/50 balls. At 25 years old, he is still a young player, so there is still room to grow. His shooting ability is a good start, so now, the rest needs to follow.
Harris is another player that may not be on the roster next season. This won’t be because of lack of ability, but he may need to be moved for the sake of the rebuild. If he can improve into a solid sixth man, then he may possibly stay in the fold. Only time will tell what his future holds. For now, he just needs to continue developing and playing his game.