3 early Nets NBA free agency targets in 2024 offseason

The 2023-24 NBA season has been a challenging odyssey for the Brooklyn Nets. It has been marred by inconsistency and unmet expectations. Sporting a 31-48 record, the Nets have grappled with the rigors of the Eastern Conference. They have battled through a campaign fraught with injury woes and on-court discordances. Despite flashes of brilliance and the occasional upset against top-tier teams, Brooklyn has struggled to find a sustained rhythm. Their losing record has reflected a season of missed opportunities and what-ifs. This performance, or lack thereof, has laid bare the team’s need for strategic reinforcements. They aim to bolster their lineup with key additions in the offseason.

Here we will look at the three early free agency targets whom the Brooklyn Nets must pursue in the 2024 NBA offseason.

Grayson Allen

First on the list is Grayson Allen. With the anticipation of Ben Simmons being more consistently present next season, the Nets would be wise to maximize shooting talent around him. Allen has distinguished himself as one of the most efficient volume shooters in the league over the last five years. In fact, he boasts an average of 10.8 points and 2.2 three-pointers per game at a 41.5 percent clip from beyond the arc.

Allen’s expertise in three-point shooting has made him a key offensive asset throughout his NBA career. His impressive shooting accuracy, particularly from three-point range, would greatly benefit the Nets’ offensive strategy. Allen’s prowess in creating space and stretching defenses is essential in today’s three-point-dominant game. Moreover, his enhanced defensive efforts and ability to perform in high-pressure situations would be critical for the Nets in turning the tide in closely contested matchups.

Naji Marshall

Now, we turn our attention to Naji Marshall. Sure, he may not possess Allen’s shooting finesse. However, his current season three-point percentage of 37.8 indicates notable improvement. Marshall’s physical attributes (6’7, 220 pounds) and his ability to defend across multiple positions could also compensate for his comparative shooting discrepancy in a conducive system.

Marshall epitomizes the all-around player that contenders dream of adding to their roster. His ability to significantly impact both ends of the court presents an intriguing option for the Nets. His versatility enables strategic flexibility. That is a critical component over the grueling stretch of an 82-game season and playoffs. Marshall’s energetic playstyle and enhanced three-point shooting could inject the Nets with much-needed depth and versatility.

Jalen Smith

Lastly, Jalen Smith might appear as an unconventional choice. Yet, consider that the Nets are likely to have access to the non-taxpayer mid-level exception. As such, investing in Smith could leave room for additional signings. Smith’s potential contribution to the Nets’ frontcourt could offer a unique dynamic. This is especially true given his averages of 10.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.2 three-pointers in just 18.1 minutes of play. This is complemented by a 48.4 percent success rate from three.

Not surprisingly, Smith’s ascent as a promising frontcourt talent has caught the attention of the Nets’ decision-makers. His versatile game can impact both inside and on the perimeter. This presents the archetype of a modern NBA center. Smith’s proficiency in shot-blocking and rebounding also addresses critical needs for Brooklyn. This positions him as a foundational piece for their defensive schemes. Furthermore, his ability to hit shots from both mid-range and beyond the arc adds a new dimension to the Nets’ offensive playbook.

Looking Ahead

As the Brooklyn Nets gear up for the 2024 NBA offseason, targeting Grayson Allen, Naji Marshall, and Jalen Smith emerges as a strategic blueprint for recalibrating their roster. Each player offers the potential to address specific deficiencies that have plagued the Nets in their recent campaigns. Allen’s sharpshooting, Marshall’s versatile defense, and Smith’s modern big-man capabilities could collectively elevate Brooklyn from their current state of uncertainty. The right moves can push them to a position of strength in the competitive Eastern Conference. Pursuing these talents not only aligns with the Nets’ immediate needs. It also signals a commitment to building a well-rounded, dynamic team capable of challenging for championships. As the offseason unfolds, the Nets’ maneuvers in the free agency market will be pivotal in setting the stage for their resurgence. Allen, Marshall, and Smith can be positioned as potential cornerstones in this new chapter of Nets basketball.