Since the Nets were formed in 1967, there have been many great players to play for the franchise. Even though Brooklyn, formerly known as New York and New Jersey Nets, have not had much success, that does not mean this team hasn’t seen its fair share of great players. Going back to the ABA days, this franchise has seen the likes of Julius Erving, Charles “Buck” Williams, and Jason Kidd to name a few. Let’s take a look at what the Nets’ all-time team would look like.
Point Guard: Jason Kidd – 2001-2008
Even though Jason Kidd spent more time as a Dallas Maverick, he transformed the New Jersey Nets. The Nets acquired Kidd, along with Chris Dudley, in a trade the sent Stephon Marbury, Johnny Newman, and Soumaila Samake to the Phoenix Suns. During his first year in New Jersey, the California product turned the Nets from a bottom feeding team in the Eastern Conference to a championship contender. In the same season, he finished second to Tim Duncan for MVP. New Jersey made the Finals in Kidd’s first two years with the team. During his tenure with the Nets, Kidd accomplish many achievements. Here is a list of notable achievement the point-guard accomplished:
- Six-time All-Star appearances (2001-2004, 2007-2008)
- Three-time All-NBA First teams (2001-2002, 2004)
- One-time All-NBA Second Team (2003)
- Three-time All-NBA Defensive First Team (2001-2002, 2006)
- Four-time All-NBA Defensive Second Team (2003-2005, 2007)
- Three-time NBA assists leader (2001, 2003-2004)
Having a point-guard that can find his teammates is an asset to have on a team. Jason Kidd averaged 8.7 assists-per-game (APG) over the course of his career, and has the second most assists (12,091) in the history of the NBA. Along with a great passing ability, Kidd was a proficient scorer. Throughout his 21-year career, he averaged 12.6 points (PPG) and 1.9 steals-per-game (SPG) while shooting 40% from the field. Not only is Jason Kidd the best option at point-guard on the Nets’ all-time roster, but he will make his team better, whether it’s as a player or the leader of the team. After a great career, the Nets retired his #5 jersey in 2013.
Shooting Guard: Vince Carter – 2004-2009
Even though Vince Carter played more years (seven) with the Toronto Raptors than he did in New Jersey (five), he put up impressive numbers with the team. During his time in New Jersey, the Nets made the playoffs three times and he was selected to four All-Star games. The North Carolina product averaged 23.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.7 assists-per-game while shooting 45% from the field. While Vince Carter showed he was an effective shooter in New Jersey, while having a great point-guard like Jason Kidd, there is no doubt he would put up at least 20 points and 5 rebounds against another all-time team in the Hoop Trends All-Time Tournament.
Small Forward: Keith Van Horn – 1997-2002
There were two options that could have fit here, but untimely Keith Van Horn was given the spot at small forward. During his five years in New Jersey, he averaged 18.9 points and 7.9 rebounds-per-game while shooting 43% from the field. On this all-time team, Van Horn would add a scoring and rebounding presence. The Utah product played an important role in the Nets’ 2002 playoff run, as he was second in team scoring and led the team in rebounding. If Van Horn can add both scoring and rebounding to this all-time team, he will be a good asset.
Power Forward: Buck Williams – 1981-1989
Coming in at the power forward position is Charles “Buck” Williams. “Buck” played eight of his 17 years in New Jersey. During his tenure with the Nets, he averaged 16.4 points and 11.9 rebounds-per-game while shooting 55% from the field. During his eight seasons in New Jersey, he was one of the top three rebounders in six of those years. These numbers should stand out significantly, as he would work well with Van Horn and the center on this team. Not only would Jason Kidd find Williams in the post, but his rebounding presence would be a huge asset to this team. In April of 1999, the Nets retired his #52 jersey.
Center: Billy Paultz – 1970-1975
Even though Billy Paultz played more seasons with the San Antonio Spurs, he put up better numbers with the Nets and was apart of the 1974 championship team. During his five years with the Nets, he averaged 15.6 points, 11.2 rebounds and 2.1 blocks-per-game while shooting 50% from the field. Since blocked shots were first recorded during 1972-73 seasons, which was his third season in the ABA (American Basketball Association), there is no doubt he will be a force to be reckoned with in the paint. Paultz adds a bit of everything; he can score, rebounds well, and prevents opposing players from attacking the rim.
Sixth Man: Richard Jefferson – 2001-2008
Having Richard Jefferson come off the bench gives this team more scoring. Van Horn, Williams and Paultz all bring rebounding to this all-time team, so that will not be an issue. Jefferson was an effective shooter from the field, as he shot 48% from the field during his seven seasons in New Jersey. During his tenure in New Jersey, he showed his ability and defensive presence.
While this all-time team would be a really good, this team would struggle when it comes to three-point shooting. Kidd, Carter, Van Horn and Jefferson; the four players averaged 34%, 37%, 35% and 34% from beyond the arc during their time in New Jersey. While this team will not struggle when it comes to rebounding, this team will need their shooters to come through.
The Heat Check Magazine 