Brooklyn Nets: Biggest strengths and weaknesses for 2017-18

Strength No. 3: Coaching

The one thing that most have agreed on as a strength for the Brooklyn Nets is their coaching staff. Their assistant coaches are strong, led by former Popovich disciple Jacque Vaughn. The core strength is, of course, head coach Kenny Atkinson.

Brooklyn Nets

2016-17 was Atkinson’s first year as a head coach, and he did not disappoint. The Nets only won 24.4 percent of their games, but they made huge strides in terms of overall development. Brook Lopez rarely attempted threes in his career. One season under Atkinson, and Lopez shot 34.6 percent on 6.3 3-point attempts per 36 minutes. Atkinson didn’t necessarily made Lopez a better shooter, but he gave him the freedom — while encouraging him — to take 3-point shots.

Atkinson’s patience helped the team tremendously, and he seemingly got the entire roster to buy in to his message despite losing games every night. His preferred up-tempo style brought out the best in young players last season, and that will continue this season.

The 22-year-old Rondae Hollis-Jefferson is becoming a solid small-ball power forward under Atkinson’s tutelage. He will get more experience in the role on this year’s team due to his speed making him best suited for their fast-paced game. Atkinson should also be able to work wonders with Russell, who needed a change of scenery more than anything.

Brooklyn lost 62 games last year. They figure to win more games this year just based off the amount of talent they added alone. Not to mention that former No. 2 overall pick Russell is starting his third season in the league, where point guards usually start to put things together. The Nets will win more in 2017-18, and Atkinson’s willingness to stick with the rebuild is a big reason why. He has confidence in his young players, and they consistently outperform expectations for he and his staff.