Brooklyn Nets: 5 takeaways from 2017-18 NBA season
By Alec Liebsch
2. Jarrett Allen has a bright future
For most NBA teams, this kind of takeaway would be much lower on the list. However, the 2017-18 Nets were no ordinary team; fans had to find solace in the little things.
Although player development is a “little thing,” rookie center Jarrett Allen is the antithesis of little. The 6’11” lanky behemoth has gone far and beyond what was expected of him before the season.
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With his length and standing reach, Allen is a perfect finisher in the pick-and-roll. I’ve discussed not only his role in the offense, but also his progress overall, both with glowing praise.
Allen deserves such praise. His role is very specialized as a rim protector and finisher, but it is an extremely valuable one. Look no further than Clint Capela of the Houston Rockets to recognize the value of such a player.
Allen finished the season averaging only 8.2 points and 5.4 rebounds per game, but traditional stats don’t do him (nor the heavy majority of NBA players) justice. With a Player Efficiency Rating of 17.5 (fourth among rookies) and 4.2 win shares (fifth), Allen has proven to be a positive presence for the Nets.
Considering that most rookies hurt their teams, and the Nets stunk as a whole in 2017-18, seeing Allen succeed in this manner is no small feat. With more capable shooters and playmakers around him, Allen can reach new levels of efficiency.
Allen with four shooters, at least one of which is an improving passer and creator? Too easy. Defenses will be overpowered by that scheme for years to come.