With the draft coming up next week, we will be taking a look at prospects for whom the Nets might consider trading into the draft.
Brooklyn does not have a pick, but general manager Billy King has said he is interested in trading into the draft if a player they like is available. Here is one who could entice them to trade for a late first-round or second-round pick.
JOE HARRIS, G/F, VIRGINIA
HEIGHT: 6-foot-6
WEIGHT: 215
THE 411: Joe Harris is a rare four-year starter who probably could have come out as a junior after averaging 16.3 points at Virginia. He stayed and sacrificed his individual numbers, averaging 12 points last season, and helped lead the Cavaliers to the ACC championship and a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament, where they lost in the Sweet 16. Harris is a terrific shooter with a quick release who made 40 percent of his 3-point shots in three of his four years at UVa. He also is a gritty defender who helped turn the Cavaliers' program around. He lacks elite athleticism and quickness, but he has height, range and could project to being a rotational player.
FORD PROJECTION: According to ESPN.com Insider Chad Ford, Harris is projected as high as a late first-round pick, or a second-round choice. Ford has Harris in his fifth tier of players, which includes prospects who could go anywhere from No. 20 to No. 40.
FORD’S REPORT: Harris was considered a potential first-round pick after his junior season. He decided to return, and it hurt his draft stock a little. Across the board, his numbers dipped this year. But Harris is still an intriguing prospect. He's an amazing shooter, has good strength for his position and might be the best defender of the lot. I could see a team taking a chance on him in the late first round. The shooting ability alone might warrant it.
WHY SHOULD THE NETS TRADE TO PICK HIM: The Nets certainly are in need of youth and athleticism. While Harris, 22, is not as athletic, he can shoot and has height. And coach Jason Kidd wants to spread the floor with shooters and size. He also may need another defender who can shoot, with Alan Anderson potentially opting out of his contract and becoming a free agent. Harris was a leader with the Cavaliers and could be more ready to contribute off the bench than some other younger prospects in the draft. The Nets had some success with another four-year college prospect in last year’s draft (Mason Plumlee).