The Brooklyn Nets have point guard to address. Is the leading scorer for the Volunteers a fit?
The Brooklyn Nets present intriguing backcourt play for the future.
Nolan Traore, Egor Demin and Drake Powell lead this movement as past 2025 picks. But the 2026 NBA Draft can top off the guard room in Brooklyn.
NetsRoundtable presented some possibilities already ahead of the May 10 draft lottery. Names like Keaton Wagler of Illinois, Bennett Stirtz of Iowa, and Mikel Brown Jr. of Louisville have been mentioned as potential options.
Brooklyn still has fans hoping the franchise addresses the frontcourt more or add a high volume scorer. Still, the team holds the option of waiting to the second round in addressing the guard spot.
And that's where Ja'Kobi Gillespie of Tennessee enters the picture here.
Instinctive Scorer
Head coach Jordi Fernandez could fall in love with a scoring guard, especially at PG.
This point man brings impressive scoring instincts to the floor. Gillespie holds the edge in speeding past defenders to the hoop thanks to his quick feet.
Gillespie hits defenders with an explosive first step and can change direction to create shot openings.
Smooth Shooting Touch
Gillespie brings a catch-and-shooting option to his next team.
Not just because he's open often on the floor. But largely due to displaying a smooth release and arc to his attempts.
He delivered eight attempts behind the arc per game and nearly hitting 35% of his baskets.
He's a strong spot-up shooter but can also hit pullup jumpers when needed.
Post Attacker
He doesn't bring the biggest frame to the hardwood.
But the 6-foot-1, 190-pounder is fearless in attacking the paint. He throws his body inside like a running back trying to power through the goal line.
Except he finishes strong to the hoop even if he needs to resort to his off-hand.
He'll even resort to a floater if needed but quickly gets the shot off before he gets sandwiched by defenders. He even takes care of the basketball at a high level with a 2-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio.
Areas of Concern
Yes he plays with no fear. But his diminutive size presents a dilemma.
He may wear himself down with constant contact. Gillespie also could struggle fighting through traffic at his size especially on designed screens.
He looks like he thrives better in space versus pick-and-roll situations too.
Are Nets a Fit?
Gillespie brings a true PG element here, hence why he's worth taking a closer look at before the draft.
He's also an older draft prospect, meaning establishing leadership shouldn't be an issue here.
He's worth taking in the second round unless the Nets address point guard early.
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