How do pundits see the new-look, new-location Nets? Everyone agrees they'll be improved, but some aren't as enthusiastic as others about the Nets' ability to make noise in the playoffs.
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The Nets new motto is "It's Our Time." But for pundits, like John Schuhmann, the motto should be "Defend Yourself." The Nets were at historic levels of futility early last season, rising that the end to be among the league worst in every category. For the Nets to succeed, Schuhmann writes, they must fulfill Avery Johnson's goal of a top ten defensive team.
Mike Fratello has spent a lot time sitting next to Marv Albert, Ian Eagle and Ryan Ruocco the last several years, watching bad basketball. Now, this season, he expects to watch good basketball.
Defense, defense, defense. That's what John Hollinger says the Nets need if they want to be a contender, but if they "could be very, very good." But he has his doubt that Avery Johnson can get them to defend.
Zach Lowe, writing now for Grantland, gives his impressions on how the 2012-13 season will work out. He puts the Nets, Knicks and Sixers in an interesting category: "Exciting Upside, Too Many Questions". He also says there are some in the league who think the Nets won't make the playoffs!
John Hollinger looks at the Nets individually, from Deron Williams and Joe Johnson to Mirza Teletovic and Tyshawn Taylor. Offensively, he sees potential, defensively, he sees danger.
How ready will they be on November 1? We'll start getting answers this week as the Nets move from off-season to pre-season starting with Media Day Monday and then full practices under Avery Johnson Tuesday
Avery Johnson says that the Nets can't waste any time in their quest to compete for a championship, because much of their rotation "are guys who have a three- to five-year window."
