The Brooklyn Nets are more focused on securing lottery odds than competing for wins this season, as GM Sean Marks shifted to a rebuild this summer, aiming for the 2025 draft. Despite this, several players on the roster have much to prove—whether for contracts, trade appeal, or personal pride. Here are three Nets with the most at stake in the 2024-25 season.
3. Ziaire Williams
Ziaire Williams, one of the young prospects Brooklyn took a chance on this offseason, was acquired from Memphis in exchange for Mamadi Diakite. The 23-year-old, once the 10th overall pick in the 2021 draft, struggled with injuries and inconsistent offensive play during his time with the Grizzlies. Standing 6’9″ with a 6’10” wingspan, Williams has the potential to be a strong wing defender, but his offensive game remains underdeveloped. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, this season offers him a chance to prove he can improve his shooting and offense, potentially earning him a contract extension next summer.
2. Cam Thomas
Cam Thomas, known for his scoring ability since his LSU days, has always been a polarizing figure. Despite being the nation’s top freshman scorer, he slid to the 27th pick in the 2021 draft due to concerns about his size, playmaking, and defense. After showing scoring flashes in his first two seasons, Thomas took a bigger role last year, leading the Nets with 22.5 points per game and improving his playmaking and shooting. However, opinions about him remain divided, with some NBA scouts viewing him as a star and others as a liability. In his contract year, Thomas will have the chance to step into a larger role and prove he can be more than just a streaky scorer, potentially boosting his free agency value next summer.
1. Ben Simmons
Ben Simmons’ place on this list is no surprise. The three-time All-Star is entering the final season of his five-year, $177 million contract, with his future in the league highly uncertain. Simmons hasn’t made a significant impact since his 2021 playoff struggles with the 76ers. Injuries and mental health challenges have limited him to just 57 games over the past three seasons. His offensive passivity, especially his reluctance to attack the basket, has been a major concern. Now reportedly fully healthy after back surgery, Simmons is determined to prove he can return to his All-Star form. This season is crucial for him to re-establish himself as a key player in the NBA.