Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

Ooh, Garnett and Pierce leaving? That'll be rough on the locker room, but should help a bit in the financial aspect. And I'm shocked to see Nash not inducted into the HOF, I figured he'd for sure be a First Ballot-er. Loving the writing style, super clean and professional. Keep up the great work.

Garnett and Pierce are leaving, yes. Their leadership will certainly be missed. In terms of the finances, it should help down the road but the Nets are still in salary cap hell at the moment. Yeah, I was surprised that only Duncan and Garnett made the HOF.

That means so much to me, thank you.

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

2014 NBA Draft - Round 1 Recap
Pick	Team	Player	Pos	Ht	Wt
1	Milwaukee Bucks	Bogdan Bogdanovic
2	Dallas Mavericks	Andrew Wiggins
3	Detroit Pistons	Alec Brown
4	Philadelphia 76ers	Roberto Nelson
5	Orlando Magic	Alex Kirk
6	Utah Jazz	Jabari Parker
7	Sacramento Kings	Jordan Bachynski
8	New York Knicks	Joel Embiid
9	Charlotte Bobcats	Julius Randle
10	Los Angeles Lakers	Dante Exum
11	Memphis Grizzlies	Doug McDermott
12	Phoenix Suns	Aaron Gordon
13	Atlanta Hawks	Rodney Hood
14	Denver Nuggets	Gary Harris
15	Cleveland Cavaliers	Dario Saric
16	Indiana Pacers	Marcus Smart
17	Boston Celtics--->Golden State Warriors	Noah Vonleh
18	Washington Wizards	James Young
19	New Orleans Pelicans	Montrezl Harrell
20	Toronto Raptors	Jerami Grant
21	San Antonio Spurs	Adreian Payne
22	Miami Heat ---> Phoenix Suns	Glenn Robinson
23	Houston Rockets	TJ Warren
24	Portland Trailblazers	Nik Stauskas
25	Golden State Warriors	Willie Cauley Stein
26	Chicago Bulls	Chris Walker
27	Minnesota Timberwolves	Mario Hezonja
28	Los Angeles Clippers	Sam Dekker
29	Oklahoma City Thunder	PJ Hairston
30	Minnesota Timberwolves	Andrew Harrison

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

2014 NBA Draft: Trades & Notable Second Round Selections

Boston Celtics trade 17th overall pick to the Golden State Warriors for Draymond Green and 2nd round draft pick.

Miami Heat trade the twenty-second overall pick along with a 2015 second round draft pick to the Phoenix Suns for Channing Frye and a 2014 second round pick.

Frye missed the 2012 season due to an enlarged heart.

Dallas Mavericks Select Shabazz Napier Forty-Third Overall

Napier is a two-time NCAA Champion, most recently with Connecticut in 2014. The Mavericks selected Andrew Wiggins second overall, and now they also have Napier.

Mitch McGary Selected by the Memphis Grizzles Fortieth Overall

McGary tested positive for marijuana prior to the draft, and dealt with various injuries in college. McGary was facing a one year suspension from the NCAA, and opted to enter the NBA Draft.

Brooklyn Nets 2014 NBA Draft Selections

The Nets, due to their blockbuster trade with the Celtics last year, won't naturally have any first round draft selections for the next few seasons. Thus, the Nets are in a difficult position when it comes to acquiring collegiate players. However, the Nets wound up with two second round draft picks in the 2014 NBA Draft.

The Brooklyn Nets Select DeAndre Daniels With The Fiftieth Overall Pick

DeAndre Daniels is a small forward that played for the 2014 NCAA Champion Connecticut Huskies. Daniels is a big man, standing at 6'9, a seven foot wingspan, large hands, and possesses above-average athleticism. Perhaps Daniels' greatest asset is his perimeter shooting ability. Daniels can also play at power forward and even center. A large knock on Daniels is his inconsistent defense. However, his potential is undeniable.

The Brooklyn Nets Select Rasmus Larsen With The 57th Overall Pick

The Nets have a proclivity for selecting European players in the draft, and continued that trend tonight by selecting Larsen. Larsen played for La Bruixa d'or Manresa ( a Spanish team.) Larsen was born in Denmark, and he stands at 6'11 with a 7.2 foot wingspan. Larsen is very mobile for a man of his size, and can make plays on both ends of the court. He can work in the paint and score there, but he also has a good jump shot. Larsen is a good defender at times, but some question his toughness.

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

2014 NBA Free Agency

After losing Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Andray Blatche, Alan Anderson, and possibly Jason Collins, the Brooklyn Nets entered free agency knowing that they needed big men. Brooklyn managed to resign Jason Collins prior to the start of free agency and also offered Alan Anderson an extension. Next, the team offered contracts to Alonzo Gee, Jordan Hill and DeJuan Blair, hoping at least one of them would accept. Alan Anderson declined his offer, but Alonzo Gee accepted the contract offer. Gee's agreement meant that Brooklyn could not afford Hill or Blair.

Brooklyn Nets Sign Alonzo Gee

Gee became the odd man out in Cleveland, often butting heads with Kyrie Irving, Tristian Thompson and others. Gee is a former NBA D-League Rookie of the Year.

Still needing a big man, the Brooklyn Nets scoured the free agent market, hoping to find a decent bench player at a cheap price. The Nets may have found that in Viacheslav Kravtsov.

Brooklyn Nets Sign Viacheslav Kravtsov

Kravtsov has played all over Europe, most recently helping the Ukrainian Basketball Team qualify for their first FIBA World Cup since the breakup of the Soviet Union. Kravtsov led "everyone in the 2013 EuroBasket tournament in blocks made with an average of 2 blocks per game."

Kravtsov has played in 45 NBA games; he played 25 with the Detroit Pistons before being traded to the Bucks then the Suns.

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

False Alarm; The Big 3 Will Return to Miami

When the Miami Heat lost the 2014 NBA Finals, everyone began acting as if the sky was falling down. The Heat had won two straight NBA Championships; for Miami, it was three-peat or bust. So, when the final buzzer of Game 7 of the NBA Finals rang, and the Heat were not the victors, it appeared that it would be a new day in Miami. LeBron James, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh all had early termination options in their contracts, and could opt for free agency. Wade and James opted out and tested the open market while Bosh stayed in Miami. After a few grueling weeks, LeBron James and Dwayne Wade have decided to return to Miami, as they have resigned with the Heat. The Big 3 remains in tact; though an important question remains. Is it enough? How will the Heat adapt to their Finals loss?

Kobe Bryant Resigns With The Lakers

Similarly, Kobe Bryant opted for free agency, only to return to his team (The Los Angeles Lakers.) Bryant gave many fans a scare, as it appeared that Bryant did not want to endure the Lakers' rebuilding project. However, Bryant will return to LA.

Miami Heat Sign Shannon Brown

The Heat have not only managed to keep the Big 3 intact, but also signed a two time NBA Champion. Miami has signed Shannon Brown, who played most of the 2013-2014 season with the New York Knicks. Brown averaged 2.1 points per game in approximately eight minutes per game in 19 appearances with New York. Brown won two straight NBA Championships with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009 and 2010.

New York Knicks Sign Wesley Johnson

In essence, the Knicks have replaced Shannon Brown with Wesley Johnson. Johnson is a former fourth overall pick that hasn't lived up to his potential (yet.) Johnson has played for the Timberwolves, Suns and most recently the Lakers. In the 2013-2014 NBA season, Johnson played in 79 games, starting 62 of them. Johnson had a career-year in 2013/2014,as he averaged over 28 minutes per game, 9.1 points per game, one block and one steal per game,4.4 rebounds per game, .425 FG percentage, and .369 three pointer percentage (all career highs.)

Lakers Sign Danny Granger

The Lakers made a splash in free agency (shocker) by signing Danny Granger. Granger is a former NBA All Star and Most Improved Player. Granger won a gold medal with the United States National team in the 2010 FIBA World Championships. Granger missed most of the 2012-2013 (he only played five games) due to patellar tendinosis. Granger played for the Indiana Pacers from 2005-2014, but was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers for Evan Turner. Soon after, the 76ers bought out Granger's contract, making him a free agent. Granger was pursued by many contending teams, but he ultimately decided to sign with the Clippers. Now, Granger will remain in Los Angeles, but leaves the Clippers for their arch-rival Lakers.

Clippers Sign Andray Blatche

Andray Blatche opted out of his contract with the Brooklyn Nets, citing frustration with his role on the team as his main reason while also demanding more money. Blatche had several suitors, but ultimately signed with the Clippers. Blatche's role on the Clippers is unknown at this time; Blake Griffin has the starting power forward spot locked up while DeAndre Jordan has his job as starting center secure.

Carmelo Anthony Signs With The Philadelphia 76ers

The 76ers have won the Carmelo Anthony sweepstakes. Anthony is a seven time NBA All Star, two time All NBA Second Team Member, 2013 Scoring Champion, and two time Olympic Gold Medalist with the USA Basketball team. Anthony left the New York Knicks, stating that he wanted to win a championship. Many expected Carmelo Anthony to sign with a contender; the Bulls, the Rockets, the Mavericks, the Heat, maybe the Lakers. Instead, he chose a team in full rebuilding/tanking mode in the 76ers. Was it for the money? Does Anthony think that he can carry the 76ers to a championship? Time will tell. Regardless, add Anthony's name to the list of greats that have played for the 76ers that already includes Allen Iverson, Julius Erving, Wilt Chamberlain, Charles Barkley, and many others.

[IMG]http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-apps/imrs.php?src=http://img.washingtonpost.com/blogs/early-lead/files/2014/07/pierce1.jpg&w=480[/IMG

Paul Pierce and Darren Collison Sign with the Orlando Magic

The Brooklyn Nets could not afford to resign Paul Pierce, who wanted to leave the team anyway after the team failed its all-in attempt at a championship and Kevin Garnett's subsequent retirement. Pierce is a former NBA Champion, Finals MVP, ten time All Star, and former All NBA Second Team Member. Pierce was expected to reunite with the coach he won a championship with, Doc Rivers, and sign with the Clippers. Instead, Pierce signed with the Magic, a team with virtually no immediate hope for a championship.

Darren Collison started many games this past season for the Los Angeles Clippers in the absence of the injured Chris Paul. Collison played quite well, and sought a big pay day. Collison has played for New Orleans, Indiana, and also Dallas.

[JG80]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

Carmelo is out of his mind lol.


Sent from Nawlins.

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

Carmelo is out of his mind lol.


Sent from Nawlins.

Yeah, I couldn't believe it when I saw he signed with Philly, lol.

[ChosenOne58]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

Following.

Like what I've read so far. Except for the Melo/Philly thing..... but I know you have no control over that.

This season looks like it's going to be some work.

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

Following.

Like what I've read so far. Except for the Melo/Philly thing..... but I know you have no control over that.

This season looks like it's going to be some work.

Thanks for the support. I wish I could control where other FAs sign but I can't.

I'm interested to see how the year goes. The loss of Pierce and Garnett really hurts. That, and the loss of Livingston and Blatche, makes this a different team.

[StraightBaylien]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

Thanks for the support. I wish I could control where other FAs sign but I can't.

I'm interested to see how the year goes. The loss of Pierce and Garnett really hurts. That, and the loss of Livingston and Blatche, makes this a different team.

I didn't even realize that you had lost Livingston. I tried to trade for him in my Association near the deadline, but somehow he just vanished from my Association. I double checked to see if he retired, and he didn't. He's just... not here. haha. Solid, underrated player. Such a versatile game that is hard to replicate with just one player.

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

2014-2015 NBA Preview: The Atlantic Division

In recent NBA history, the Atlantic Division has been viewed as a mediocre one. Last season, the Nets and Raptors both made the playoffs, and even met in the first round. The two teams engaged in a thrilling seven game series that saw Brooklyn emerge victorious, only to fall to the Heat in five games in the second round. The Knicks fought to the end to make the playoffs, but fell short of the postseason. Subsequently, Mike Woodson was fired as Phil Jackson was brought in as president. The Celtics had a down year to say the least, dealing with injuries and trade rumors in regard to star guard Rajon Rondo. This year, the Knicks look to have further regressed, the Nets have lost several key pieces, the Raptors managed to keep their talented roster together, and the Celtics are still dealing with Rondo trade rumors. Oh, and the 76ers got Carmelo Anthony.



Rajon Rondo Can't Stay Out of the Headlines. Will This Be the Year That Boston Cuts Ties With its Injury Prone Star?

The Celtics won an NBA Championship in 2008, but have been trending downward ever since. Boston finished 2013-2014 25-57, missing the playoffs for the first time since the 2006-2007 campaign. Brad Stevens enters his second year as head coach of the team, and hopes to improve on last year's disappointment. Rajon Rondo is healthy to start the season, but he is unhappy. Rondo has not officially requested a trade yet, but this situation is one that is worth keeping an eye on. Boston should hope that the group of Jared Sullinger, Jeff Green,and Avery Bradley has improved. Boston traded for Draymond Green, who is a difference maker. Kelly Olynyk enters his sophomore campaign. Boston drafted guard Aaron Craft, who should get plenty of playing time as a rookie.

Prediction: Boston trades Rajon Rondo before the trade deadline, misses the playoffs.



Since 2010-2011, the 76ers, in terms of overall record, have been progressively getting worse. Philadelphia is undeniably in full tanking mode, as it went 19-63 last season. Philadelphia can boast about its Rookie of the Year Michael Carter Williams, who will surely be an All Star, but otherwise bears a lackluster roster. Nerlens Noel will be healthy this year, but he's an unknown quantity after sitting out his rookie year to recover from knee surgery. The team has kept Thaddeus Young through its tanking stage; Young is a very talented player that frankly deserves better. Jason Richardson is not getting any younger, but remains a talented player.

Philadelphia made the biggest splash of the offseason by signing Carmelo Anthony. No one can determine why Anthony chose to sign with the tanking 76ers rather than a contender in the form of the Bulls, Mavericks or Rockets. Instead, Carmelo remains close to New York, staying in the division by signing with the rival 76ers.

Philadelphia is still a mediocre team; however, the combination of 'Melo, Carter Williams, a healthy Noel, Thaddeus Young, and the supporting cast just might be enough to push this team to the playoffs in the "mediocre" Eastern Conference.

Prediction: if the team doesn't intentionally tank, they'll make the playoffs as an 8th seed. If the team tanks, they'll finish slightly better than last year.



The Raptors resigned Kyle Lowry, Keeping Their Talented Core Intact

The Raptors are coming off a season that saw the team clinch its first playoff birth since 2008, win its first Division Championship since 2007, and win a franchise-record 48 games. DeMar Derozan became the fourth Raptor in history to be selected to the All Star Game. Kyle Lowry was invaluable to the success of the team as he, DeRozan, Jonas Valanciunas, and Terrance Ross are are maturing and becoming great players together. Toronto made the playoffs for the first time since 2008, but lost in seven games to the division rival Nets. Kyle Lowry could have hit free agency, but the front office managed to resign the star. Thus, this uber-talented core remains in tact, while newly added rookie Jerami Grant figures to come in and play off the bench.

Prediction: Atlantic Division Champions, make the playoffs, win their first round series but lose in the second round.



Carmelo Anthony Has Left Town (For Philadelphia...) Tim Schmidt Is In, Mike Woodson is Out

The Knicks must be hurting and licking their wounds. New York did all they could to keep Carmelo Anthony, but the star player claimed that he wanted a championship, something that New York could not provide him. Anthony signed with the division rival Philadelphia 76ers, a team with far less immediate hopes for a championship. Many analysts are specualting that the 76ers gave Anthony a financial offer he could not refuse, or that this divorce between a player and his team was/is far more personal than it originally appeared. Anthony's departure leaves New York in a difficult state; now, the star seems to be Iman Shumpert. Beyond him the Knicks have the aging/injury plagued duo of Tyson Chandler and Amar'e Stoudemire. JR Smith has made it known that he wants out of New York; most pundits expected Smith to be traded before the deadline last year, if not this summer. Instead, Smith is on the verge of causing a locker-room incident for new coach Tim Schmidt and new president Phil Jackson.

This team is regressing rapidly, due to age and players leaving. The team drafted Joel Embiid, and would be wise to play him early. Last year's rookie sensation Tim Hardaway Jr. will be one year better, and the team signed a new starting small forward (potentially) in Wes Johnson. Raymond Felton and Andrea Bargnani are still eating up cap space (for now.)

Prediction: New York misses the playoffs. Phil Jackson blows up the roster, definitely trading away JR Smith. Jackson should also trade Stoudemire, Chandler, Felton and Bargnani.

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

I didn't even realize that you had lost Livingston. I tried to trade for him in my Association near the deadline, but somehow he just vanished from my Association. I double checked to see if he retired, and he didn't. He's just... not here. haha. Solid, underrated player. Such a versatile game that is hard to replicate with just one player.

Yeah, he's gone. That's weird, man haha. he is very solid and under-appreciated, and it's a shame that he left for the Warriors IRL. In this myGM, he went unsigned in free agency. Therefore, he's sitting in the free agent market. I just might have to sign him, especially if a certain player on the team gets traded.

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

2014- 2015 Brooklyn Nets Preview

Many "experts" are expecting this season to be a step backwards for the Brooklyn Nets. Paul Pierce left for Orlando, Kevin Garnett retired, Shaun Livingston left, as did Andray Blatche. Brooklyn also lost valuable role player Alan Anderson. Jason Kidd could not keep his ego in check, seeking much more power than he deserved. Thus, when the coach coming off his rookie year at the position made a power play, the Nets front office wisely declined. Rapidly, the situation spiraled out of control, and Kidd left town. Shawn Lucas was brought in to be the next head coach of the Brooklyn Nets (their fourth coach in three years.) Lucas faces a difficult task in his first year.

Joe Johnson, SG

Joe Johnson is often viewed as the hero of this team; he always brings his "A" game, and leaves it all on the court. He can score from absolutely anywhere. Joe is affectionately called "Joe Jesus" by his teammates. Yet, Johnson is getting older by the day, (he enters this season 33 years old) and could be entering the decline of his career. (His points per game average have declined for three straight seasons.) Brooklyn might be wise to trade Johnson, especially if this season goes as many are expecting it to. (Brooklyn is widely expected to finish last in the division and 29th overall....) Johnson's talent is undeniable (he's a seven time NBA All Star.) Trading Johnson might not be the most popular move to fans, but taking his contracts off the books would give the Nets more cap room something they have virtually nothing of.

Deron Williams, PG

Deron Williams is in a similar, yet quite different, situation as Joe Johnson. Williams is thirty years old, and coming off offseason ankle surgery. Williams has clearly regressed in his time in Brooklyn, and is expected to regress even further. Williams is a three time NBA All Star, and two time Olympic Gold Medalist with the US Men's Basketball Team. However, the world of professional sports is truly based on the mantra of "what have you done for me lately?" The answer, when it comes to Deron Williams and the Brooklyn Nets? That is the actual (eighteen million) dollar question.

Alonzo Gee, SF

Alonzo Gee was signed in free agency to essentially replace Paul Pierce. Originally, it was unknown whether Gee or Andrei Kirilenko would start at small forward. However, Kirilenko is a role player (a talented one but a role player regardless.) Just two years ago, Alonzo Gee started all 82 games for the Cavaliers and averaged ten points per game. Gee is 27; he could be hitting the prime of his career.

Mason Plumlee, PF

Power forward is another position where the depth gets interesting. Rather than sign a starting quality free agent (which they couldn't afford to do,) Brooklyn will be starting second year man Mason "the Plumber" Plumlee at power forward. Plumlee typically plays at center, but the return of starter Brook Lopez (missed most of last season with a foot injury) and the loss of Kevin Garnett put the Nets in a bind. Plumlee started 22 games in his rookie year, and made the All-Rookie First Team. Shawn Lucas has raved about Plumlee's ability and potential to be an All Star.

Brook Lopez, C

Brook Lopez returns, as previously mentioned. Last year, Lopez went down with an injury on December 20th, and would miss the rest of the season. Lopez is a former All Star, has shown the ability to start all 82 games ( in 2009-2010 and 2010-2011) but has recently struggled to stay healthy. In a season full of uncertainty for the Nets, Lopez's name is another that is often brought up in trade rumors. Unlike Joe Johnson and Deron Williams, Lopez has been a Net for his entire NBA career, and is still young at 26. Of the potential trade candidates, Lopez seems the least likely.


For the sixth man role, it is a battle between Marcus Thornton and Mirza Teletovic. Both men are good offensive weapons with above-average three point shooting ability. Currently, it appears that Thornton will be the team's sixth man to start the year.

Some new faces have the front office excited; European player Bojan Bpgdanovic will finally make his Nets debut, and Viacheslav Kravtsov was signed in free agency to be a role player. Rookies DeAndre Daniels and Rasmus Larsen probably won't have large roles, but either could earn more minutes by playing well.

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

NBA News Update Pre-Season 2014-2015

Pacers Start The Year #1 in Power Rankings

For two straight years, the Pacers have fallen to the Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals. Last season, the Pacers were dominant for the early portion of the regular season before experiencing a terrible slump to end the season. The Pacers barely beat the Hawks in the first round of the playoffs in a seven game series before beating the Wizards in six games in round two. In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Heat beat the Pacers in six games, and many analysts questioned how the Pacers would respond in the offseason.

Roy Hibbert fell into a terrible slump for the latter half of the regular season, and even most of the playoffs. Lance Stephenson was a very talented player whose actions both on and off the court made many question his future on the team. Hibbert and Stephenson both were expected to be traded away this past offseason. Instead, Indiana has kept its core together and is hoping that this will be their year.

The development of Paul George and the overall depth of this roster has placed the Pacers at the top of the Power Rankings to start the 2014-2015 season.

Trade Rumors

Oklahoma City Thunder Shopping Reggie Jackson

San Antonio Spurs Exploring The Market For Marco Belinelli

*This is a questionable move for the Spurs, should they decide to trade Belinelli. Fan favorite Australian guard Patty Mills signed with the Utah Jazz this offseason. If the team moves Belinelli, they will be left with very little depth at the guard positions behind Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili. Danny Green and Cory Joseph would be the only two other natural veteran guards on the team.

*The Cavaliers have reportedly offered a Jarrett Jack/Marco Belinelli swap.

2014-2015 NBA Pre-Season Injuries

NBA Champion Minnesota Timberwolves: Corey Brewer Is Out 6-8 Weeks With A Broken Patella

Toronto Raptors' Patrick Patterson Is Out 2-4 Months With A Torn ACL

Miami Heat's Shane Battier Is Out 4-6 Months With a Torn ACL

[Gronk4M13]

Re: Hello Brooklyn II: Brooklyn Nets MyGM (PS4)

Matchup Preview *|* October 28, 2014
	@
Indiana Pacers (0-0, Away)		New Jersey Nets (0-0, Home)
Projected Starters Marcus Smart (Rookie) Point Guard Deron Williams Lance Stephenson Shooting Guard Joe Johnson Paul George Small Forward Alonzo Gee David West Power Forward Mason Plumlee Roy Hibbert Center Brook Lopez Game Notes The Nets take on the #1 ranked Indiana Pacers in the 2014-2015 season opener. The Pacers drafted Marcus Smart, who somehow fell to them in the draft. Smart has overtaken George Hill as the starting point guard for Indiana. Lance Stephenson and his arguably immature antics remain in Indiana. Behavior aside, Stephenson is a very talented player. Paul George has risen to Superstar heights; he is one of the best forwards in the NBA, as he is a three time NBA All Star, an All-NBA Third Team member, and an All Defensive First Team member. David West is still getting it done at 33 years old; the two time NBA All Star is undeniably an offensive weapon inside the paint. Roy Hibbert starts at center; the two time NBA All Star slumped to end the regular season last year, which continued into the playoffs. Hibbert was expected to be traded, but remains in Indiana.Off the bench, sixth man Evan Turner is an offensive difference maker, and George Hill will be more energized in a bench role. For the Nets, Deron Williams is coming off offseason ankle surgery, but is ready to go for this game. Williams is a former NBA All Star (3 time) but one that has regressed with age. Joe Johnson is the team's biggest offensive threat but is aging quickly. Alonzo Gee was signed in free agency, and starts at small forward with the departure of Paul Pierce. Kevin Garnett's retirement has caused the transition of second year man Mason Plumlee to power forward. Plumlee made the All Rookie First Team last year; he's a great dunker and overall scoring threat in the paint. "The Plumber" will be tasked with defending David West. Brook Lopez will be back in action for the first time since falling to an injury in mid-December 2013. Lopez is a former All Star that has struggled to stay healthy recently. The Nets are hoping that the return of Lopez will give this team its identity back. Lopez is a great scorer inside, and is also a good defender. There is no one key-matchup. Can Marcus Smart keep Deron Williams in check, and vice versa? Is Williams 100% after surgery? Can Williams stop regressing? Johnson vs. Stephenson is an intriguing matchup, as both are great offensive threats. George has the edge in talent over Gee. However, Gee could turn some heads if he can keep George from dominating the game. Many Nets supporters are curious, if not nervous, to see how Plumlee adjusts to this position change. Many others also want to see how much Plumlee has improved since his rookie year. Which Roy Hibbert will appear in this game; the very talented one that made two All Star games, or the one that fans saw at the end of last season? How has the foot injury/time away from the court affected Brook Lopez? The Pacers are just the better team, and should win this one without much trouble.