Brooklyn Nets Are One Of NBA’s Worst Defensive Teams

Since trading for James Harden, the Brooklyn Nets have been one of the best offensive teams in the NBA, averaging nearly 122.6 PPG, but they are now the worst defensive team in the NBA, as they are giving up an average of 121.7 PPG to their opponents in that same time span. 

One of the main reasons why the Nets are so bad defensively is because they have no rim protectors on their team and can easily be scored on in the paint. DeAndre Jordan is not much of a rim protector and when this team goes small, they have no big guy who can protect the paint. 

This is why Nerlens Noel would be a great addition from the New York Knicks for the Brooklyn Nets to consider. Not only has he come on as a shot blocker over the years, but Noel is also a guy who’s primary focus could be on the defensive side of things. 

While he is only averaging about 17.5 minutes per game with the Knicks this season, Nerlens Noel currently finds himself tied for 2nd in the league in defensive rating and 6th in the league in blocked shots per game. His ability to defend in the paint is exactly what the Nets are looking for and is exactly what they need to add to bolster their defense. 

Come playoff time, the Nets are going to struggle to match-up against Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo, which is exactly why they need to add another big body who is somewhat capable of holding his own ground. With Noel’s athleticism for a big man and ability to improve Brooklyn’s defense, he would be a great fit with this Nets team.