Predicting the Brooklyn Nets 2018-19 starting lineup

By Kunal Kohli | Dec 28, 2017

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 18: Jeremy Lin #7 of the Brooklyn Nets handles the ball against the Indiana Pacersm on October 18, 2017 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – DECEMBER 09: D’Angelo Russel of Brooklyn Nets looks on during the NBA game between the Brooklyn Nets and Miami Heat at Arena Ciudad de MÈxico on December 9, 2017 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images) /

Prediction: D’Angelo Russell

2017-18 Stats: 20.9 PPG, 4.7 TRB, 5.7 AST, 19.5 PER

Although he has been out for the majority of the 2016-17 season, Russell is a lock to start at shooting guard next season. It should be of no surprise to anyone. When he’s healthy, Russell is the best player on the Nets.

The Nets have already identified Russell as their franchise cornerstone. And Russell has proved it. While Lin was injured, Russell was putting up All-Star worthy numbers.

Granted, the Nets could also consider Dinwiddie here as well. But why bench your star player, who you traded the face of your franchise for, for a player who exceeded expectations for one season?

Also, the Nets could consider Joe Harris. The three-point maestro has been killing it this season and is an incredible impact player. While Harris can shoot, however, he does not impact as many facets of the game as Russell does. Russell is not just a scorer, he can rebound and is a pesky defender at times.

Although he has only played in 12 games so far, expect Russell to have a huge impact on the court in upcoming months.