Nothin' But Nets
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Russell’s arrival won’t change the Brooklyn Nets draft plans

By William Berthold

Dec 14, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Los Angeles Lakers point guard D'Angelo Russell (1) controls the ball against Brooklyn Nets small forward Joe Harris (12) during the second quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 14, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Los Angeles Lakers point guard D'Angelo Russell (1) controls the ball against Brooklyn Nets small forward Joe Harris (12) during the second quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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The acquisition of  D’Angelo Russell from the Los Angeles Lakers is why loyal Brooklyn Nets fans have faith in the Sean Marks/Kenny Atkinson regime. It was a shrewd manuever making the Lakers pay the price of Russell for the unloading of the albatross contract of Timothy Mozgov, who was also included in the deal that sent Brook Lopez and the 27th pick of tomorrow’s NBA Draft out West. The move was foreshadowed by Nothin’ But Nets own Andrew Hughes. How’s that for analysis?

For NBA fans, Draft Day is like Christmas. Teams get to enjoy a shiny new toy. Let’s take a look at who the latest mock drafts circulating the Internet have the Nets selecting. For our purposes we will limit the list to mocks performed after the Nets traded the 27th pick of the draft.

Two mock drafts go against the grain and have the Nets taking guards with their first pick.

  • Paul Kasabian at Bleacher Report foresees the Nets choosing Oklahoma State PG Jawun Evans.
  • Steve Popper at northjersey.com dissents from the Nets taking a big man with his selection of guard Terrance Ferguson, who plays overseas in the Australia NBL.

If there is a consensus in NBA Mock Draft Land it’s that the Nets figure to use the 22nd pick on frontcourt help come Thursday night. The trade should alter little the Nets’ mindset on Draft Day. Brooklyn figured to add to their frontcourt even before the acquisitions of Russell and Mozgov, so that hasn’t changed.

What has changed is playing time. With the departure of Lopez, minutes are now available for a newly acquired big. The depth chart currently includes only Justin Hamilton and Mozgov at center.

It will be intriguing to see what happens if a guard whom the Nets have rated high is available when they hit the clock. Stay tuned. Should be an exciting draft. Until then, enjoy what feels like Christmas Eve.

Next: Take a look at the past as we say goodbye to Brook Lopez