Off-Season Game Plan: Nets
The class of the Atlantic Division in 2005-2006, the New Jersey Nets are close to contending, but appear to be one player away.
Considering the perimeter trio of Jason Kidd, Vince Carter and Richard Jefferson is likely the best in the league, that extra body needs to be a big.
Nenad Krstic, who improved by leaps and bounds this season, does give the Nets one scoring option in the frontcourt, and his improvement at the offensive end means that offense isn't necessarily the first priority to add to the low post for New Jersey.
With the star power New Jersey has, the Nets might consider trading Jefferson in order to acquire the size that the Nets need. Players like Utah's Carlos Boozer or Indiana's Jermaine O'Neal would certainly be worth adding.
Free agents like Reggie Evans or Darius Songaila, who could opt out of his contract with the Bulls, both would be decent -- and more cost-effective -- alternatives.
Another way for the Nets to add size could be packaging their two first round picks to move up higher in the first round. Getting a big defensive presence, like an athletic shot-blocker, could be enough for the Nets. Moving up to pick the likes of Cedric Simmons, Hilton Armstrong or Patrick O'Bryant would add a new dimension.
Even with a bolstered starting lineup, the Nets may want to address the bench too. While Jason Collins and Cliff Robinson are serviceable options in the frontcourt, an upgrade wouldn't hurt. Furthermore, if last year's first-rounder Antoine Wright isn't ready to contribute, the Nets should add a veteran wing as insurance behind Jefferson and Carter.
Now that the NBA's emphasizing the rules on the perimeter more than ever, the skill that the Nets have on hand is enough for them to contend year-in and year-out, but to make that next step, change has to be part of this summer's plan.
GM/COACH
Rod Thorn/Lawrence Frank
CENTERS
Returning: Nenad Krstic, Jason Collins. Free Agents: None
FORWARDS
Returning: Cliff Robinson (TO), Richard Jefferson, Scott Padgett, Bostjan Nachbar. Free Agents: Lamond Murray (UFA)
GUARDS
Returning: Jason Kidd, Vince Carter, Zoran Planinic, Antoine Wright. Free Agents: Jacque Vaughn (UFA), Jeff McInnis (PO)
DRAFT
22nd - Hilton Armstron, Saer Sene, Alexander Johnson
23rd - Kyle Lowry, Rajon Rondo, Jordan Farmar, Shawne Williams
54th
FREE AGENCY
Payroll: $53.4M
TRADE MARKET
Jefferson (five years, $66M)
