Brooklyn Nets: Battles for Starting and Backup Position
Shooting Guard
Last season, Foye ended the season as the starter at shooting guard. The position was shared with a variety of players including Sean Kilpatrick and Joe Harris. Foye is no longer on the team, but the Nets traded for D’Angelo Russell, who is expected to take over as the starter.
Russell is the most talented player out of the three and is undoubtedly going to get the first shot to start after being the centerpiece of this summer’s blockbuster trade with the Lakers. The team hopes Russell can take the next step and become the Nets’ franchise player.
MUST READ: D’Angelo Russell’s Fantasy Value with the Nets
With the starting role locked down, the battle is going to be over who will be the backup, much like point guard. When healthy, Kilpatrick was the go-to sixth man on the roster last season, and he hopes to fill that role again. He is a dynamic scorer that can change the tide of a game without being in for extended periods of time.
Harris had a chance to cement a role with Nets last season, but injuries derailed his year just when he was beginning to hit his stride. The acquisition of Russell coupled with the impact of Kilpatrick could push the minutes that Harris sees to only blowout scenarios.
A lot of things can happen that will affect both guard positions, but as it stands, Russell is the sure-fire starter at shooting guard. Kilpatrick will attempt to hold onto his role of sixth man from last season, and even if he loses it, should still get solid rotation minutes. Harris is most likely either going to be an end-of-the-bench player or a roster casualty before the season begins.