Brooklyn Nets are in desperation mode to replace the numerous players in the team that opted out of the NBA restart.
NBA teams will start team training this weekend as players begin moving in the Orlando bubble. Coaches are already devising ways and means to regain the momentum they lost early in the season. However, they believe that the transition will be hard. As such, it has to be taken day by day.
While Playoffs-ready teams are planning their strategy, the Brooklyn Nets are busy filling in empty roster spots.
Brooklyn Nets sign Jamal Crawford
Jamal Crawford has been a staple in NBA teams throughout his career. He provides the spark needed for any team needing instant offensive power. Crawford is the type of player that can easily go on scoring runs by himself in isolation plays. However, his age will come in as a factor in the NBA restart.
Jamal Crawford has agreed to a deal with the Brooklyn Nets, sources tell @TheAthleticNBA @Stadium.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 9, 2020
Crawford will enter the NBA restart as the oldest active player replacing Udonis Haslem. He also hasn’t played in the NBA since the start of the season. As such, he will be under great scrutiny as to how much gas he has left in the tank. Nonetheless, the NBA is rejoicing for his return.
Many players have voiced out their opinion that Crawford never deserved to be left unsigned in free agency. Crawford’s career average since the NBA 2000 Draft is 14.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. These numbers do not reflect his true potential on the court, and Nets fans are in for a treat as he suits up for Brooklyn.
Nets may also sign veteran Michael Beasley
The former overall number two pick hasn’t had a team since the Lakers signed him before the 2018-2019 season. Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to suit up for the team for much of the first half. After just a few games of playing with the Purple and Gold, Beasley was traded to the Clippers, which waived him right after.
Michael Beasley is moving toward a deal with the Brooklyn Nets, sources tell @TheAthleticNBA @Stadium.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 9, 2020
The veteran forward has been a journeyman throughout his career. After starting strong in Miami, he has bounced from team to team, including the Wolves, Suns, Heat, and the Bucks.
Beasley brings toughness and veteran experience to any team, but his off-court antics have been his Achilles heel. His career average is 12.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists.
Signing Beasley and Crawford will be beneficial for the Nets at the end of the day. Both players bring with them instant offense for the team. However, their run inside the bubble may not be too long considering their possible Playoffs matchup with the Raptors.
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