Nets AnalysisThe Nets got a huge break last night when Marcus Williams fell to them at the 22nd slot in the first round, the Clippers pick acquired via Denver in the Kenyon Martin trade. Williams should fill the role of backup point guard to Jason Kidd.
With the 23rd pick, the Nets selected Josh Boone. I'm not a big fan of Boone, and there were better players available. But despite the mantra of teams that "we pick the best player available, regardless of need," the Nets were right to pick someone at a position they need help at. Having drafted Williams, the Nets are solid at point guard, and while they can use a pure shooter, overall they need a big man much more than a shooting guard or small forward. If Lawrence Frank gives him a chance to work through the inevitable rookie mistakes, Boone should get a chance to be part of the rotation by the middle of next season.
Now the question is what the Nets next move will be. While I've seen nothing to indicate that the Nets are interested in bringing back Kenyon Martin, I'm still holding out some hope. Jason Collins, Antoine Wright, a first round pick and one or two expiring contracts (such as Cliff Robinson or Jeff McInnis) would make the trade work under the cap and provide value for Denver. It would also instantly propel the Nets to championship contention. Contrary to the opinion of naysayers like Elster, Martin's knee problems are minor, and his rapport with Jason Kidd is obvious.
If the Nets don't trade for Martin, they will hopefully utilize their mid-level exception on a solid shooter and/or another power forward.
posted on 6/29/2006
