Final Brooklyn Nets draft big board, complete list revealed

Second Round Big Board

Throughout this process, I’ve routinely updated a list of 10 players I believe the Nets may have their eyes on in the second round.

As of now, they only pick at #57, but we expect that to change. With $3.425 million in cash considerations, the Nets shouldn’t have an issue buying a pick in the top-half of the second round. After all, more than half of the players they have worked out are slotted between 22nd and 57th in the most recent DX mock. There’s plenty of reason to believe the Nets plan on securing an additional second round pick on Thursday.

Jackson has been flying under-the-radar, but at 19, the kid has serious potential. Extremely skilled and tested exceptionally well at the combine. I’ve been high on him for some time, but the Nets have yet to schedule a workout for him, as far as we know.

Swanigan is one of the hardest working players in the entire 2017 NBA Draft. Many predict his body to be an issue at the next level, but he’s spent his entire career proving people wrong. 

Underrated quality of Swanigan: he sets monster screens to free up his teammates. The Nets offense, which relies heavily on the three-point shot, wouldn’t mind getting a few more open looks.

Kuzma is gaining steam at the right time. Wouldn’t be surprised to see him taken in the 1st round. Extremely versatile offensive weapon with a 7’0″ wingspan that helps him on the defensive end.

V.J. Beachem is currently listed 67th on DraftExpress’ latest mock. He’s been on my personal Nets wish list since last season, and I’m still shocked by his lack of recognition amongst mock drafts. He fits the ‘3 and D’ description incredibly well, and is very underrated as an athlete. 

Bryant could be a real option for Brooklyn. He’s 6’10”, 250 pounds, with a 7’6″ vertical. As a sophomore at Indiana, Bryant connected on 38% of his attempts from long-range. Not bad for a 19 year old with those measurements. 

Peters, a four-year player at Valpo, averaged 22 points and 10 rebounds per game as a senior. A leg injury has caused his draft stock to plummet, but when healthy, he has true stretch 4 potential. He shot 37% from distance and 89% from the free-throw line. 

“I think I’m the best shooter in this draft, no question.” – Alec Peters

Iwundu is another player with ‘3 and D’ potential. Shot 37% from three and at 6’7″, he carries a solid frame. His 7’1″ wingspan can bother defenders and his 36″ max vertical helps him gather rebounds (6.3 per game). 

Sumner finds himself in a Caris LeVert-like situation. Prior to injury, he was a projected first-round pick. Now he finds himself floating around mock drafts in the second round. He’s a lanky, athletic guard who can score and defend. The Nets could be interested.

Thornwell is an absolute bull. The 44 point, 21 rebound performance is not a typo. He’s 6’5″ and is the ultimate competitor. He has the 3rd highest PER (player efficiency rating) of all players listed on the latest DX mock. 

If you ever watched Monte Morris play a game in college, I’m sure you heard about his miraculous ability to never turn the ball over. His basketball IQ should translate into success at the next level. 

Expect the Nets to be active in the second round.

Next: Why now is the time to become a Brooklyn Nets fan

Conclusion

The Lopez trade leads us to believe the Nets will go ‘big’ in the draft. Beyond that, the Nets haven’t given us many hints as to who they are coveting.

Without a doubt, Thursday night promises to be a good one. The rumors are heating up, and the first Woj Bomb has been dropped. Prepare for battle.