As much expected, the Nets are projected to be a powerhouse team with the recent trade of Harden to the Brooklyn Nets. Many speculated the Nets being a top team in the East with the Irving, Durant, and Harden trio however with such a high volume offense, the Nets kryptonite seems to be defense. In a more recent signing the Nets acquired free agent guard Iman Shumpert looking to bolster their defensive efforts. Shumpert was initially drafted to the Knicks back in 2011, looking to be a rising star in the league. However, due to multiple injuries and inconsistent play, he has bounced around teams in the league with the Nets being his last gig in 2019.
The veteran guard has been known for his solid perimeter and on ball defense accompanied with his athleticism. He was an integral part of the Cavaliers 2016 championship run, being the backup point guard for Kyrie Irving. This recent signing is attributed to the Nets looking for an answer to the poor defense this season. The Nets are averaging 116.2 points allowed per game, ranking them at #26 in points allowed per game. Granted, the newly appointed head coach Steve Nash was not known to be a defensive player and did not play under a defensive minded coach for the majority of his NBA career.
With Dinwiddie out for the season and the Nets giving up most of their valuable bench pieces for Harden, The Nets are lacking depth in their bench. Although Shumpert is predominantly known for his defense, he can be a solid asset on the offensive end. He has the ability to run the floor and push the offensive tempo. During his time with the 2016 Cavs championship team Shumpert was a little under 40% in three point shooting. Shumpert has proven that as a veteran guard he can produce offensively when needed. If Shumpert can somehow quickly develop his game into being a solid two way bench player for the team, he can alleviate some of the challenges that the Nets face with guards from opposing teams in the Eastern conference. Along with his solid defense, he can create offensively for the team making the Nets a slightly deeper team in the East.
