What is going to the Nets do with soon-to-be restricted free agent Ziaire Williams this offseason?
The 6-9 ahead has been a pleasing shock for Brooklyn. He’s averaged a career-high 10.1 factors and 4.6 rebounds throughout 60 appearances (42 begins), together with a career-best 33.8% taking pictures from 3-point vary. He ranked fourth on the Nets with 99 made 3s getting into Thursday’s matchup in opposition to the Minnesota Timberwolves and will probably end inside the High 3.
For reference, Williams shot simply 30.1% from deep throughout three injury-plagued seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies. And whereas he nonetheless has methods to go till he could be thought-about a knock-down shooter, his enchancment is apparent — and he’s nonetheless simply 23 years outdated.
“Really just rhythm, rhythm and just staying on track, shooting straight line drives every time,” Williams stated. “But the main thing is just shooting the same shot, like not really focusing on the result, and not worrying about feet and legs and arms, just focusing on two things a day and just shooting at the same time.”
Williams, initially drafted tenth total by Memphis in 2021, is within the ultimate season of his rookie contract. His 2024-25 wage is $6.13 million, with a qualifying supply of about $7.9 million. Coming into free company, his manufacturing as a starter has undoubtedly improved his market worth.
“You know, I’m always capable of, you know, what I can bring to the table, but when you see the fruits of your labor paying off, it always does help and feels really good,” Williams stated. “So, you know, just trying to trust my work, and that’s about it, man. That’s about it.”
WHAT IF?
On the Pat McAfee Present this week, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that in 2022, the Nets have been in commerce discussions with the Boston Celtics a couple of potential deal that will have despatched Kevin Durant to Boston in alternate for Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and a first-round choose.
Brooklyn reportedly rejected Boston’s bundle. However the Celtics must be glad it did, as a result of Brown and White clearly turned out to be invaluable elements of their 2023-24 championship group.
The Nets nonetheless received a lot in return for Durant: Cam Johnson, 9 unprotected first-round picks, one protected first spherical choose, two first-round swaps and three second-round picks.
ARENA UPGRADES
BSE International lately unveiled particulars in regards to the subsequent part of Barclays Heart’s ongoing renovations. A premium membership membership, “Gallagher Terrace”, and higher concourse fan zone, “The Bridge”, is predicted to open forward of the 2025-26 NBA season.
Development begins as quickly because the Nets’ 2024-25 season ends. The renovations will not be anticipated to disrupt the Liberty’s residence schedule or summer season live performance season at Barclays Heart.
Initially Printed: April 3, 2025 at 7:29 PM EDT
