Brooklyn Nets: 3 reasons to re-sign Joe Harris

2. Fit on the Nets

Joe Harris rebuilt his career by playing into Kenny Atkinson’s system. He shot unconsciously, initiated some pick-and-rolls, and also was one of the most efficient drivers in the league in 2017-18.

These are all qualities of an Atkinson wing. A marksman who plays within himself is exactly what teams need from their role players. Harris won’t create his own shot or anything of that sort, but he shouldn’t ever have to, either. His game is within the confines of a good NBA system, and the Nets certainly provide that.

For that reason, Harris would be ill-advised to leave unless the contract is too lucrative to pass up. He’s a perfect fit in Brooklyn, and he likes it there too. The drive-and-kick efficiency that Harris provides is threatening to opposing defenses, and spreads the floor for shot-creators like D’Angelo Russell and Dzanan Musa.

The need for systematic shooters is more valuable than the average fan thinks. There’s only one ball, so the majority of players must sacrifice touches to become effective. Harris has done that with aplomb in Brooklyn, and hopefully continues to do so for years to come.

In few other places can Harris maintain a significant role (25.3 minutes per game in 2017-18), shoot at will (4.6 3-point attempts per game), and be part of a great locker room culture all at once. He needs the Nets as much as they need him.