Preview 2024/25: Everything about the Brooklyn Nets of Jordi Fernández

Juan López | Fri, 10/04/2024 - 07:42

Jordi Fernández, the new coach of the Brooklyn Nets.

The 2024-25 season for the Brooklyn Nets will be historic for Spanish basketball, as Jordi Fernández will become the first coach from our country in the NBA.

Brooklyn has decided to embrace a complete rebuild, starting with the trade involving Mikal Bridges and regaining control over their next two drafts, providing them with flexibility for long-term planning. This raises questions about the future of other key players like Cam Johnson, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Dennis Schroeder, who could hold value in the trade market. Even Nic Claxton, following his re-signing in the offseason, could become a tradable asset once eligible for movement starting January 15, 2025.

Expectations for the Nets are low, but Bridges' departure opens the door for a new star to step up. Cam Thomas, who averaged 22.5 points per game last season, will have a larger role and could establish himself as a key piece for the team's future or a valuable trade asset. Dennis Schroder, coming off a standout performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, will lead the offense, while Claxton's new long-term contract provides stability in the paint.

Despite having a strong foundation, it appears that the Nets are leaning towards "tanking" in hopes of landing a high-level prospect like Cooper Flagg, committing to a long-term reconstruction.

Strengths:

The team boasts emerging talent like Jalen Wilson, Noah Clowney, Dariq Whitehead, and Cam Thomas. Additionally, Dennis Schroeder's experience and leadership, combined with Nic Claxton's defensive presence in the paint, offer solidity. There's also the potential for Ben Simmons to regain his form, akin to Jonathan Isaac's situation in Orlando.

Weaknesses:

The Nets are in a transition phase and could see the departure of veterans like Cam Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith, affecting the team's depth. The shift towards rebuilding could impact team morale, and the defense may suffer if key players are traded. Relying on young players might lead to performance inconsistencies.