Brooklyn Nets: Projecting rotation with Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant

Centers

It is easy to forget that Jarrett Allen is still basically a kid, having recently turned 21. Although he got physically handled in the playoffs and at times throughout the season against stronger bigs, he still has much room to develop.

His improvement on the glass was noticeable, specifically with his defensive rebounding percentage increasing by nearly 33 percent. Additionally, his 24 double-doubles solidified his potential on both ends of the floor.

Regardless of rumors, he will almost certainly be the starting center next season on his cheap rookie deal if the Nets sign two big guns.

Allen only played about 26 minutes per game last year, primarily because of the effectiveness of Ed Davis. Davis was a hyper-efficient rebounder in his time each game, creating an abundance of second-chance opportunities.

But with the Nets only able to offer him the full mid-level exception topping out at two years around $11 million, his departure for a richer deal feels inevitable.

This potential hole may lead to increased minutes for Allen, but the backup center role still must be filled. The second-round draft pick Nicolas Claxton will have a chance to show his skills in training camp.

His athletic build and solid footwork make him an intriguing prospect, but having only played two years at Georgia the staff may ease him early on in the season.

The likely scenario I see is the Nets signing a veteran center who can provide strength and toughness. A good option could be Robin Lopez. The 11-year veteran could provide a more rugged alternative to Allen and bang with stronger opponents.

Ivica Zubac and Dewayne Dedmon are two other younger, skilled bigs that would fit nicely, but may be a bit too expensive. Kyle O’Quinn could likely be had on a minimum deal and could still likely offer 15 minutes of solid rebounding per night.

If the Nets are to sign their dream free agent duo, the summer would have to be considered a massive success.

But in order to compete this season with the top half of the Eastern Conference, Marks must make shrewd additions to establish a deep roster that is not overly reliant on the starting lineup.