Predicting the Brooklyn Nets 2018-19 starting lineup

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SAN ANTONIO, TX – DECEMBER 26: Tyler Zeller #44 of the Brooklyn Nets shoots the ball against the San Antonio Spurs on December 26, 2017 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. 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 (Photos by Mark Sobhani/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Prediction: Tyler Zeller

2017-18 Stats: 8.5 PPG, 5.1 TRB, 59.1 FG%, 16.4 PER

Brooklyn has several options for next season’s center. While they could resign Jahlil Okafor in the offseason, that option is not guaranteed. Assuming the Nets do not resign him, they most likely go with Zeller.

Some will Jarrett Allen deserves a spot. However, Zeller has been outplaying Allen. While the rookie is leading the team in blocks and is a defensive stud compared to the rest of the team, he has much to lean offensively.

As with Hollis-Jefferson, Harris, Dinwiddie and LeVert, Zeller has outperformed expectations. He is a dependable offensive option. Granted, he does not bring much to the table in terms of defense.

What separates him from the rest of the team’s centers, however, is his rebounding. Timofey Mozgov, Allen and Okafor all struggle with rebounding. But Zeller is actually third on the team. For reference, Carroll leads the way with seven per contest.

Zeller has demonstrated not only a prowess on the boards, but a willingness to keep possessions alive. He even hit a three, the first one of his career, this season. For that, he gets to start.

Next: The Nets fall to the Pelicans, thanks to Rondo's 25 assists

Of course, these predictions should be taken with a grain of salt. There are four more months left in the season and a lot can happen.