Three keys for the Nets entering the 2024-25 NBA regular season
Nets guard Cam Thomas dribbles in the second half during a preseason NBA basketball game against the Washington Wizards, Monday, Oct. 14, 2024, in New York. Credit: AP/Heather Khalifa
1. BEN SIMMONS' HEALTH
Simmons’ back surgery in March was his second in three seasons. He’ll be managed carefully, but what can the Nets reasonably expect from him?
If he stays healthy, he’s the one player who can help the Nets stay afloat and win some games they might lose otherwise. But in the last year of his contract, can Simmons’ body hold up to both help the Nets and his future?
2. CAM THOMAS' EFFICIENCY
The safest bet this season is Cam Thomas scoring at will. He might wind up averaging more points than the Nets’ win total.
The trick is, can he finally turn his scoring into winning basketball? He showed glimpses last season but the Nets need him to score while fine-tuning other parts of his game. It’ll also help his case seeking a contract extension this summer as a free agent.
3. REMEMBER THE BIGGER PICTURE
The losses will add up, most likely after the trade deadline. But it's for a greater purpose with the Nets looking toward the future.
It means keeping one eye on top prospects during the college basketball season as well as potential free agents next summer. A rebuild is painful and Nets fans hope it's worth the joy of a high draft pick or a top free agent.
BEAT WRITER'S PREDICTION
25-57, last in Atlantic Division
The Nets are bound for the bottom of the Eastern Conference as they struggle to find wins while figuring out their new direction.
Evan Barnes has covered the Nets for Newsday since 2023.
Evan Barnes covers the Nets for Newsday. He previously covered Memphis football and the Memphis Grizzlies and also covered prep sports in Los Angeles.
