Why The Brooklyn Nets Do The Deal
On the subject of evolution in the three-point era, Ben Simmons makes for an interesting case study.
As you likely know, Simmons is an absolute non-shooter. Depending on his role, that’s a problem. On the one hand, Simmons is 6’10. He could, in all likelihood, be Nic Claxton for an NBA team in 2022-23 if he was willing. At the same time, we know he’s capable of more.
After all, Simmons has some of the best floor vision in the NBA in addition to being one of its most versatile defenders.
Moreover, his abilities to handle the ball and get to the basket make him suited for lead ball-handling duties. With that said, if that’s a role Simmons is going to play, he’ll need to play alongside a stretch big.
Valanciunas qualifies. In many respects, maximizing Simmons would be the Nets’ main incentive to trade for him. On the other hand, a big man who can hit threes is an asset to any contender.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jonas Valanciunas, New Orleans Pelicans & Brooklyn Nets Updates
Moreover, Valanciunas’ ability to bang on the interior gives the Nets a dynamic they simply do not presently have. A little meanness wouldn’t hurt this squad.
Can the Pelicans afford to part with their bruising stretch big?
