Brooklyn Nets should consider Noah Vonleh in free agency

NBA free agency season is on the horizon and the Brooklyn Nets are expected to make a move. The Nets have just under $17 million to spend and pursing Noah Vonleh is a smart decision.

The Nets have a bright future in mind. General Manager Sean Marks has done a good job rebuilding so far. It’s important for the Nets to focus and make some small moves this off-season, without breaking the bank or trading away any future picks. The Nets have the 8th most cap space in the NBA this summer.

Noah Vonleh is a restricted free agent this off-season. The Chicago Bulls are expected to match Vonleh’s contract if he does sign with another team, but it will depend on the contract. The 22-year-old power forward has shown potential in limited playing time over the past four seasons.

The Nets are in need of front-court talent. Last season, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Jarrett Allen played very well for Brooklyn. Yet their front-court was a target for opposing teams throughout the 2017-2018 season and that hole needs to be patched.

Vonleh can be used at power forward and at center for Brooklyn. He is a versatile player who has a lot to prove. Vonleh has bounced around last season, struggling to get over 20 minutes a game.

Defense

If Brooklyn were to sign Vonleh, he would have a greater defensive impact. His long 7’4 wingspan gives him the ability to not only become a dangerous shot blocker but play multiple roles on the defensive end. He also gives Brooklyn something they need: height. Vonleh is 6’10, giving Brooklyn a lot of options on defense.

Offense

Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson runs a small-ball offense which Vonleh could thrive in. Atkinson commonly gives flexibility for his players in the small-ball offense as well.

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His shooting game has not been consistent from the perimeter. He shot 30% this past season but has proven in the past he can become a streaky shooter from behind the arc.

The 22-year-old Vonleh has shown he works best down low on offense. He is an aggressive driver who draws fouls or throws down powerful slams. He is also a great offensive rebounder, giving his team extra chance opportunities to score.

Development

Coach Atkinson has been known for his player development skills. He has done a tremendous job developing young talent and helping his players take the next step in their game. Vonleh needs some development in order to reach his highest potential.

Hollis-Jefferson and Vonleh have similar styles of play. Both like to attack the basket and grab rebounds on both ends of the floor. Atkinson developed Hollis-Jefferson into a good front-court player who contributes on both ends of the floor. If Vonleh were to sign with Brooklyn, Atkinson would develop him in similar ways as Hollis-Jefferson.

The Brooklyn Nets should seriously consider signing Vonleh to a relatively cheap contract. The Nets cannot afford to break the bank this off-season, which makes signing Vonleh a realistic and smart move. Brooklyn should offer Vonleh no more than $7 million a year with intentions to use him as a piece in their rebuilding efforts.

Next: Can Paul George land in Brooklyn this off-season?