The NBA draft has become very important for the Brooklyn Nets, as they continue put together a long-term roster that can compete with the best of them in the NBA. The Nets have a boatload of picks over the next few years, so don’t be surprised if multiple Duke players end up in Brooklyn.
While possible, the Nets will be focused on the top of the draft, just like any team in the same position as them.
In Ricky O’Donnell of SB Nation’s latest mock draft, the Nets would have a chance to possibly find their star, predicted them to select Duke star Cameron Boozer with the No. 3 overall pick.
“The Nets really need to land a top-4 pick because they owe swap rights to the Houston Rockets in 2027,” O’Donnell wrote. “Boozer is the best prospect in this class in my eyes for his offensive versatility and long track record of impacting winning.
“Boozer is an awesome shooter, driver, and playmaker for his size at 6’9, 250 pounds. He’s not the most explosive or fluid athlete, but he makes up for it with strength, outstanding feel for the game, and a constantly increasing skill level. He’s been the most productive of the ‘big three’ prospects this year while also being the youngest, turning 19 years old shortly after draft day.
“It’s easy to take Boozer’s greatness for granted because he’s been so steady for so long, but he’s going to be a franchise cornerstone for whatever team selects him, regardless of draft slot.”
As of now, Boozer’s value is possibly as high as it’ll ever be, as he seems to be an NBA-ready player who can go out and do a lot on both sides of the basketball. As he ages, he’ll continue to get better, and he’s shown that in the season.
At Duke, his ability to score at all three levels and pass out of double teamshas been very impressive. He’s also putting up historic numbers at Duke and it feels like it’s going under the radar.
He might not be the same prospect as Cooper Flagg, but numbers don’t lie!