What will the Nets do with soon-to-be restricted free agent Ziaire Williams this offseason?
The 6-9 forward has been a pleasant surprise for Brooklyn. He’s averaged a career-high 10.1 points and 4.6 rebounds across 60 appearances (42 starts), including a career-best 33.8% shooting from 3-point range. He ranked fourth on the Nets with 99 made 3s entering Thursday’s matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves and could potentially finish within the Top 3.
For reference, Williams shot just 30.1% from deep across three injury-plagued seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies. And while he still has ways to go until he can be considered a knock-down shooter, his improvement is obvious — and he’s still just 23 years old.
“Really just rhythm, rhythm and just staying on track, shooting straight line drives every time,” Williams said. “But the main thing is just shooting the same shot, like not really focusing on the result, and not worrying about feet and legs and arms, just focusing on two things a day and just shooting at the same time.”
Williams, originally drafted 10th overall by Memphis in 2021, is in the final season of his rookie contract. His 2024-25 salary is $6.13 million, with a qualifying offer of about $7.9 million. Entering free agency, his production as a starter has undoubtedly improved his market value.
“You know, I’m always capable of, you know, what I can bring to the table, but when you see the fruits of your labor paying off, it always does help and feels really good,” Williams said. “So, you know, just trying to trust my work, and that’s about it, man. That’s about it.”
WHAT IF?
On the Pat McAfee Show this week, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that in 2022, the Nets were in trade discussions with the Boston Celtics about a potential deal that would have sent Kevin Durant to Boston in exchange for Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and a first-round pick.
Brooklyn reportedly rejected Boston’s package. But the Celtics should be glad it did, because Brown and White obviously turned out to be invaluable parts of their 2023-24 championship team.
The Nets still got plenty in return for Durant: Cam Johnson, nine unprotected first-round picks, one protected first round pick, two first-round swaps and three second-round picks.
ARENA UPGRADES
BSE Global recently unveiled details about the next phase of Barclays Center’s ongoing renovations. A premium membership club, “Gallagher Terrace”, and upper concourse fan zone, “The Bridge”, is expected to open ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season.
Construction begins as soon as the Nets’ 2024-25 season ends. The renovations are not expected to disrupt the Liberty’s home schedule or summer concert season at Barclays Center.
