The Nets’ immediate future rests on the shoulders of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Whoever they select here is unlikely to carry a significant weight in year one, but on paper, Josh Green could settle into a 3-and-D role (with more emphasis on the D) for a Nets team that’s set to lose depth in free agency.
Green is arguably the best athlete in the draft. He’s bouncy, strong, and exceedingly versatile at 6-foot-7. He can capably defend three or four positions, and he has tremendous upside as an on-ball defender. Brooklyn doesn’t have much perimeter defense on the roster right now, and Green has the potential to undertake difficult assignments while Durant plays to his strengths as a roamer.
The offensive picture is less clear for Green, who will need to prove his consistency as a 3-point shooter in the NBA. He’s a smart, willing ball-mover and a generally aware player, but Green’s skill package needs development. The Nets, again, won’t need him to carry a big load right away.