1. How will D’Angelo Russell fit?
Last season, the Brooklyn Nets finished 10th in pace (103.4), slightly ahead of the Golden State Warriors, who finished 11th (103.2).
Additionally, the Brooklyn Nets finished 19th in offensive efficiency (106.9), while the Warriors (expectedly) finished first (113.9.).
While that is a major difference due to the star power on each team, D’Angelo Russell is no stranger to playing a fast-paced game throughout the course of an entire season, which should aid his integration into Steve Kerr‘s system.
The fact that both teams’ offensive numbers where not drastically different last season is a clear indicator of Russell’s capability of playing on an exciting team led by unselfish superstars.
Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green are known to put their egos aside and allow another star to come in and collectively dominate with them. In this case, it is a much different scenario since Russell is the youngest star and not the best player on the team.
But nonetheless will be easy for the core three to allow Russell to contribute in a way that works for the entire offense.
On opening night, expect D’Angelo Russell to start the new season strong alongside Curry in the backcourt at shooting guard.