Grant Nelson is healthy and ready to build on his first NBA experience, while Tyler Bilodeau is focused on proving he can impact winning beyond his shooting. Both Nets forwards enter training camp looking to take the next step.
Brooklyn Nets forwards Grant Nelson and Tyler Bilodeau are heading into training camp with different levels of NBA experience, but both are focused on making an impact in whatever roles they are given this season.
Nelson spent much of the summer working his way back from a knee injury, while Bilodeau used his first taste of NBA basketball in Summer League as an opportunity to learn what it will take to succeed at the next level.
For Nelson, getting healthy was the priority.
The Nets forward said he spent the entire summer rehabbing after undergoing a tendon debridement procedure, with much of his work centered around rebuilding the strength in his quad.
Nelson credited Brooklyn's staff for helping him get back to full strength, something he said he had not felt for some time.
Now healthy, Nelson is looking forward to getting back on the court and continuing to gain experience, whether that comes with Brooklyn or the Long Island Nets.
"I'm super excited to get out there and play," Nelson said.
Nelson saw limited NBA action with Brooklyn last season, but he made the most of the opportunities he received. Those appearances, including a couple of strong performances late in the season, helped give the young forward additional confidence.
"Being at this level, like you see, even in the G League, there's so much talent," Nelson said.
Getting those NBA minutes and putting together a strong performance made the experience even more meaningful for Nelson, who described playing in the NBA for the first time as a dream come true.
While his health was the biggest priority during the offseason, Nelson also used his rehabilitation period to improve his game.
Shooting was a major area of focus.
Knowing he would miss the end of last season gave Nelson an opportunity to spend more time working on his shooting mechanics with Brooklyn's coaching and development staff. He believes that work has helped him become a better shooter heading into the new season.
"I'm really excited to show that this season coming up," Nelson said.
Bilodeau, meanwhile, is entering his first season with the Nets after getting his introduction to the NBA during Summer League.
The rookie knows he has plenty to learn, particularly when it comes to adjusting to the pace and style of NBA basketball.
Bilodeau said his biggest focus has been finding ways to contribute beyond his reputation as a shooter.
That has meant putting more emphasis on defense, communication, and rebounding, including crashing the offensive and defensive glass.
"I'm known as a shooter, but just being able to impact winning in different types of ways," Bilodeau said.
His first few months around the Nets have also given him a chance to learn from his new teammates and coaching staff. Bilodeau described the summer as a valuable learning experience and said there has been plenty of energy around the team as training camp approaches.
For both players, the next step is turning their offseason work into production once the season begins.
Nelson is looking to build on the confidence he gained from his first NBA opportunities, while Bilodeau is continuing to expand his game as he adjusts to the demands of professional basketball.
With training camp underway, both will have another opportunity to show how much progress they have made.
