Joe Johnson will make $24.9 million for the upcoming season, second-most in the NBA (Kobe Bryant). Last season, his 14.1 PER ranked 187th in the NBA, 5.9% less efficient than the average NBA player.
Brook Lopez has ranked among the top 3 centers in PER for three straight seasons. The only other big man (power forward or center) to rank among the top 3 at their position in 3 straight seasons is Blake Griffin.
The Nets were 10-2 in games decided by 3 points or less this season. Brooklyn’s 10 wins were tied with the Pelicans for most in the NBA and the franchise’s most since 1992-93.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson was one of the best defensive player in the NCAA last season. His 2.9 defensive win shares ranked 13th in the nation and his 87.8 defensive rating ranked 20th.
The Nets ranked 27th in the NBA in offensive efficiency in transition. Brooklyn was 5.9% less efficient than the league median. The team averaged just 13.3 transition points per game, also 27th in the NBA.
Peter Newmann is an analyst and writer who spent 10 years at ESPN, 8 as the NBA senior researcher working 24/7 on the league. He wrote game notes for crews, articles for ESPN.com, analysis for studio shows, and regularly assisted reporters and writers. Follow him on Twitter, and check out his Web site, www.peternewmann.com.