Brooklyn Nets: 4 options with the 19th pick in the NBA Draft

Prospects: The three key wings

The three remaining prospects should all be targeted come November 18th: Jaden McDaniels, Josh Green and Desmond Bane. As discussed, McDaniels was one of two players I suggested the Brooklyn Nets target back in June. In October, I argued Josh Green would be a great fit for the Lakers, and he could fit just as well with the Nets. When Bane flirted with entering the draft last season, I highlighted him as one of seven prospects that could thrive as NBA role players.

Jaden McDaniels

McDaniels’s length and athleticism make him a versatile defender, and he’s a capable ball-handler for a player of his size (6’9″). He didn’t shoot the lights out in college (33.9 percent from three), but his stroke suggests he could become a capable shooter (76.3 percent from the foul line).

McDaniels had an up-and-down freshman season, posting more turnovers than assists and only shooting 40.5 percent from the field. His slim frame (200 lbs) is a concern as well, but he has a lot of upside if he can put on some muscle.

Takeaway: McDaniels would be one of the more athletic players on Brooklyn’s roster from day one. If he becomes a consistent outside shooter, he could provide exactly what the team needs from the wing position in the NBA draft.

Josh Green

Green has the athleticism and shooting ability (36.1 percent) to contribute as a valuable 3-and-D player from the get-go. His solid off-ball movement below is a bit reminiscent of another “Green” (Danny Green). He has a solid feel for the game and competes hard on the defensive end.

Takeaway: Green’s lack of explosive athleticism might limit his upside, but one could imagine him contributing in a playoff series as soon as next season.

Desmond Bane:

At 6’6″, Bane’s shot should translate to the next level, shooting 44.2 percent, 42.5 percent and 46.1 percent from downtown over the last three seasons. He’s a solid athlete that projects as at least at a passable defender at the next level. Bane also showcased more playmaking ability his senior year, upping his assists per game from 2.4 to 3.9.

Takeaway: Bane doesn’t create a ton off-the-dribble and will need his shot to translate to have success. He hasn’t been regarded as a great defender, and his 6’4″ wingspan won’t impress NBA teams. Still, Bane has strong defensive fundamentals, and given his shooting prowess, projects as a strong 3-and-D player that could fit well into Brooklyn’s roster.

Final Target List: 4 (Saddiq Bey, Jaden McDaniels, Josh Green, Desmond Bane)

Conclusion

Perhaps Brooklyn’s front office will go the ‘best player available’ route and take a guard or big man, but if it drafts for need, a wing is the way to go. The four prospects discussed would put the team in the best position to compete next season.

Regardless of who the Brooklyn Nets selects in the NBA draft, however, the pick really does matter! Even the organization’s skeptics have to admit there is a path toward championship contention over the next few seasons. This year’s 1st-round pick could become an important piece of this puzzle.