Networks are getting bigger. But are they improving?
When the NBA title is contested, the depth of the veterans is everything.
The Nets learned of their Eastern Conference semifinals against Milwaukee, when coach Steve Nash played Kevin Durant and James Harden in the 53rd minute in a 7-game losing streak. Harden was on one leg.
Brooklyn still feels vulnerable in the face and is expected to make two additions to former All-Stars Paul Millsap and LaMarcus Aldridge. They are both 36 years old.
After the Nuggets robbed valuable veteran senior man Jeff Green in August, Brooklyn has now eliminated the Nuggets ’veteran presence in Millsap, according to a source.
The Nets will reportedly sign the four-time All-Star, a striker who could be useful if Durant, 34, is ill.
“I think there’s a consensus around the league that washes Millsap,” said an NBA talent appraiser. “Unfortunately, it doesn’t give them what they lost to Jeff Green.”
The Nets are reportedly likely to re-experiment with striker Aldridge, the former All-Star who has been medically authorized to play again after retiring last season from heart problems.
The 6-foot-10 Aldridge was bought last season by San Antonio and then signed with the Nets before being forced to retire after playing in just five games with the team. It’s not true if Aldridge stays healthy enough to end the season.
Millsap signed for the veteran minimum after playing the last four seasons in Denver. It has not remained healthy enough to impact in recent years.
In 56 games last season, Millsap averaged 9.0 points and 4.7 rebounds in 20.8 minutes. He started 36 games, but did not attract attention as a free agent. He has had wrist and knee injuries.
The Nets re-signed Blake Griffin to play in the center and get young striker Nic Claxton off the bench. The moves indicate DeAndre Jordan’s center will be bought.