NBN Roundtable: Reflections on Brooklyn Nets’ 2016-17 Season

2. Which Nets player impressed you the most in the 2016-17 season? (cont.)

Josh Rudy (@_JoshRudy_): I had a very difficult time trying to decide between two players for this question: Brook Lopez and Caris LeVert. While other players such as Jeremy Lin and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson can be considered, it was Lopez and LeVert that impressed me the most. Overall, Lopez got the nod. The development of a consistent shot from distance has elevated his game to the next level. At 29, there is still plenty of room to grow, and with Atkinson chomping at the bit to improve every player on the roster, there’s only one question remaining for Lopez: What’s next? In Atlanta, Al Horford credited Atkinson for developing his ball-handling and ability to drive to the basket. Is it possible we see this with Lopez?

Liam Gallagher (@lgallagher57): I was most impressed with the play of Caris LeVert, Trevor Booker and Jeremy Lin (when he was healthy). Brook Lopez would have made this list, but he’s too consistent to be wildly impressed by. LeVert legitimately looked like a potential cornerstone, with his range and ability to attack the basket. When the Nets signed Booker to a two-year, $18 million contract, I was a little surprised, to say the least. However, Booker impressed in his first year in Brooklyn, posting the best statistical season of his career, and was a constant threat to have a double-double. Lin also flourished in Atkinson’s system, averaging his best numbers since Linsanity back in 2012.

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Mike Wlodawski-Krasnov: I was most impressed with the tried-and-true Brook Lopez. His optimism, newfound three-point shot and offensive consistency after almost 10 years and about 10 coaches. I love Brook Lopez because you can tell he is a good, goofy guy.

Omri Benami (@MrBenami): The player that impressed me the most this season was Caris LeVert. Coming off major foot surgery for an injury that was recurring (and we’ve seen these before with Brook Lopez), it was hard not to worry about LeVert being able to hold up this season. He not only stayed healthy, but excelled in the process. His length and size allowed him to guard the 1-3 positions, and his long-range shooting mechanics were by far the best of anyone on the team this season. I expect LeVert to put on a bit of muscle this offseason, focus on his midrange game and driving ability and come back even better next season. In my view, his floor is as a 3-and-D player, while his ceiling is much higher if given the opportunity to start full-time.

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Jason Jacob: The Nets player that impressed me the most this season is Brook Lopez. His overall ability has increased due to his perimeter performance, and he almost matched Dirk Nowitzski. His defense also greatly improved from last season.

Ryan Muhlstock (@ryanmuhlstock): Caris LeVert was the most exciting player to watch during the season and certainly impressed me the most. There was a lot of pressure on the first-round pick to be able to contribute to the team quickly, and he really stepped up to the plate. With an athletic frame, LeVert was able to excel in both offense and defense, which is rare among NBA rookies. Averaging a little over twenty minutes a game, LeVert is for sure to see a bigger role with the team next year.