Re-drafting the 2021 NBA Draft — 27. Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, Nets
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl started 36 of 49 appearances for OKC in year one. Obviously the Thunder lack proven talent, especially in the frontcourt, but Robinson-Earl earned every minute. It shouldn’t be very surprising when we consider the steady stream of NBA-ready players coming out of Villanova in recent years.
A bulky, undersized center at 6-foot-7, Robinson-Earl is the kind of tough-nosed, offensively-versatile player who would do well in Brooklyn’s switchy, free-flowing system. There are valid concerns about his defense long term, but he’s competitive and he knows where to be. On offense, he’s an excellent passer for his position and a capable spot-up shooter.
The Nets’ whole thing is putting a lot of skilled players on the court and hoping it works out. Perhaps with more time to coalesce next season, Steve Nash’s team can actually make something happen. Robinson-Earl would be immediately in the running for minutes, especially with Andre Drummond likely to walk in free agency.