Nothin' But Nets
Fansided

2017 NBA Free Agency: Top Restricted Free Agent Targets For Brooklyn Nets

By Darnell Gilet

Mar 24, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards forward Otto Porter Jr. (22) advances the ball against the Brooklyn Nets during the first half at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 24, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards forward Otto Porter Jr. (22) advances the ball against the Brooklyn Nets during the first half at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 5
Next
Apr 1, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Nikola Mirotic (44) is defended by Atlanta Hawks forward Ersan Ilyasova (7) during the first quarter at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 1, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Nikola Mirotic (44) is defended by Atlanta Hawks forward Ersan Ilyasova (7) during the first quarter at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /

Nikola Mirotic

Nikola Mirotic might be the most frustrating player in the NBA.  In each of his first three seasons, the 6-foot-10 stretch forward established himself as the epitome of inconsistency.  The most unfortunate part about Mirotic, however, is that he has yet to improve in any area through the beginning of his career.

As a rookie, he played sporadic minutes.  In his second year, his minutes increased, but the Chicago Bulls were full of dysfunction.  Now, in the all-important third year, Mirotic continues to have the same problems.  He is an average three-point shooter at just 34 percent (down from 39 percent last season), and his IQ leaves much to be desired.

RELATED STORY: Looking at Free Agent Power Forwards For the Nets 

With all that said, why would the Nets want to sign him?  The answer is simple.  His upside is undeniable, and a change in scenery is exactly what he needs.  Over two years, Fred Hoiberg has shown no ability to develop talent.  The most obvious example is the career year Tony Snell is having with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Player development is something Atkinson excels at.  In a new, less toxic environment, and with a better coach, Mirotic can develop the consistency he needs to excel as a true stretch forward in the NBA.  With Lopez shooting the ball well, Mirotic’s potential ability to create off the dribble and stretch the floor line up well next to Hollis-Jefferson in Atkinson’s pace and space offense.