Brook Lopez: "I'm going to be better than I’ve ever been"

Don't tell Brook Lopez that he's a question mark!

In an interview with reporters at the Nets' first Southhampton Summer Camp, Lopez expressed optimism and enthusiasm about the upcoming season ... in no uncertain terms.

"Like I said before, I’m not looking for any restrictions," Lopez told ESPN New York and Newsday Friday. "I’m confident I’m gonna be able to go out there and be better than I’ve ever been. So from that standpoint, I think our timetables will be different."

Billy King has said he plans no restrictions for Lopez but will defer to the team physician, Dr. Riley J. Williams III, and trainer, Tim Walsh, as the season approaches.  Lopez underwent surgery on both feet earlier this year.  In January, doctors reconstructed his right foot following a second fracture of his fifth metatarsal and in March, they stretched ligaments and repaired a torn tendon in his left ankle.

"We’re doing everything possible to make the transition as easy as possible, so we’re not immediately just pounding, pounding, pounding right away," Lopez told Mike Mazzeo. "And I’m in good hands. We still have a lot of time left, and I’m confident when it comes to the outlook of the season. I’m very excited."

Lopez also said he had spoken with former Cavs seven-footer Zydrunas Ilgauskas, who played 11 seasons after having his foot reconstructed.

• Brook Lopez confident he'll be better than ever - Mike Mazzeo - ESPN New York
• Brook Lopez expects to fully participate in Nets' training camp - Will Sammon - Newsday
• Brook Lopez confident he’ll be better than ever - Kurt Helin - NBC Sports