Nets' Mann, Sharpe, Randle Key to Turnaround

Terance Mann believes offseason additions have the Nets headed in the right direction, while the team aims to improve its league-worst defense.

Terance Mann believes the Brooklyn Nets are headed in the right direction after several offseason additions. The 29-year-old guard, traded to the Nets last summer, discussed the team's potential at his annual youth basketball camp.

"It's amazing to be a part of it," Mann said. "To be a pioneer and help turn the corner for this organization. That's really what my goal is." He acknowledged the situation was different from his prior stops with the LA Clippers and Atlanta Hawks but said he grew close with his new teammates.

Leadership and Defense

Mann was reportedly involved in trade talks this summer, but Brooklyn opted to keep him. The Nets valued his effectiveness as a leader for the team's young players last season. "It was definitely an adjustment at the beginning, but as the year went on, it got easier," Mann stated. He noted the team has already done work this summer to build chemistry.

Improving one of the league's worst defenses is critical for success, observes Brian Lewis of The New York Post. The Nets ranked sixth from the bottom in defensive rating last season at 118.2. The team is counting on more ball pressure to disrupt opponents.

Moves like the February trade for Josh Minott and the addition of Keon Ellis are steps in that direction. Fans can track the team's progress in the standings as the season develops.

New Roles and Additions

With Nic Claxton traded to Chicago, Day'Ron Sharpe is ready to take over as the starting center. Sharpe had the best individual defensive rating on the team last season. General Manager Sean Marks said Sharpe deserves the opportunity, noting his hard work and physical changes over the last couple of years.

While Sharpe doesn't protect the rim as well as Claxton, he ranks second in deflections among all returning Nets. His development will be a key part of the team's squad dynamics.

Head coach Jordi Fernandez highlighted the importance of adding a proven scorer like Julius Randle. In the team's "The Bridge" video series, Fernandez called Randle an established, all-star playoff player. "A player that is going to come here and show everybody else how it's done," Fernandez said.

The coach expressed excitement about Randle raising the team's floor. The new-look Nets will be tested early in their fixtures.

Source: Hoops Rumors