National Basketball Association

Brooklyn Nets: Analyzing Possible Offensive Strategies

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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May 16, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets introduce new head coach Kenny Atkinson at HSS Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

Kenny Atkinson has an opportunity most first-time NBA head coaches don’t typically get: to truly mold the Brooklyn Nets into his team. The burning question heading into this season is: what kind of system will Coach Atkinson decide to use with these new pieces in place?

When looking at the Nets’ new additions, it is hard to tell what kind of offensive system Atkinson will favor. Young guns Caris LeVert, Isaiah Whitehead and Jeremy Lin point towards running an up-tempo system. However, the addition of veterans such as Luis Scola, Greivis Vasquez and Trevor Booker preach a ground-and-pound style of play, similar to what Memphis runs. In addition, it can’t be forgotten that franchise player, Brook Lopez, excels in a slowed down, post up driven offense as well.

Another factor that must be taken into account is the styles of play Atkinson learned in his time as an assistant coach.

Feb 13, 2015; New York, NY, USA; World Team head coach Kenny Atkinson of the Atlanta Hawks (left) instructs World Team guard Andrew Wiggins of the Minnesota Timberwolves (22) during the second half against the U.S. Team at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Atkinson saw great success on the coaching staff of the Atlanta Hawks under head coach, Mike Budenholzer. Budenholzer led the Hawks to a 60-win season in 2015 and was named Coach of the Year in the same season. The Hawks became notorious for their crisp ball movement and ability to get open shots on the offensive side of the ball. Additionally, the plethora of sharpshooters Atlanta had on the court during every possession helped their cause greatly as well.

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Is it possible that Atkinson could use a similar style with the Nets? Most likely not, as this year’s Nets squad lacks solid mid-range and perimeter shooters to fit into Budenholzer’s pass-heavy offense. The Hawks’ high-powered offense was driven by Paul Millsap‘s versatility, which is a factor that Brooklyn clearly lacks at the power forward position.

Before his stint with the Hawks, Atkinson was an assistant coach with the Knicks for several years. Atkinson’s biggest accomplishment in his time in New York was being credited with the development of his current point guard, Jeremy Lin. Lin was at the peak of “Linsanity” when he acknowledged Coach Atkinson’s contributions. In fact, Lin credited Atkinson’s demeanor as the main reason he he decided to sign with the Nets. The two clearly have a strong relationship. But would Lin’s fast-paced style of play fit with Brooklyn’s current roster?

Apr 20, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Jeremy Lin (7) dribbles the ball as Miami Heat guard Goran Dragic (7) defends in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs during the fourth quarter at American Airlines Arena. The Heat won 115-103. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Lin’s ability to push the tempo and create shots may not be the best option, considering who he will work with in Brooklyn. When looking at Lin’s previous success in a fast-paced offense, he had big men such as Dwight Howard and Amar’e Stoudmire in tow to open up the lane. As a result, Lin would be able to draw fouls or finish at the rim.

This season, he will have lumbering bigs such as Lopez and Scola. Both Lopez and Scola will easily clog the paint every time he attempts to drive. In turn, an up-tempo offense may not be the most conducive style of play for the Nets.

Of course, Atkinson could develop his own offensive system that fits the Nets. A drive-and-kick offense may work well with penetrating guards like Lin and Vasquez, along with shooters on the perimeter such as Bojan Bogdanovic and Sean Kilpatrick. Throw in Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and LeVert to cut hard to the rim and make hustle plays. A drive-and kick-offense may be a perfect fit for Atkinson’s new-look Nets.

It is very possible that Atkinson will change his coaching style several times this season. Given the Nets’ unstable roster situation, it will most likely be a messy season. A realistic goal for this season would be for Atkinson to get a solid idea about how he would like to coach his team going forward. This way, he can have a criteria for the type of players to recruit.

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