BKN News & Notes (1/8)
D'Angelo Russell Nearing A Return? -- The Nets could return D'Angelo Russell to the lineup very soon. According to reports, Russell will practice the G League Long Island Nets (this week) as he works his way back on the court:
Russell won't play any games but him practicing signals a a return in the very near future. Perhaps this Saturday? (Jan. 13th)
Russell, 21, is avg. 20.9 points, 5.7 dimes & 4.7 boards/night - he hasn't played since Nov. 11th @ UTA.
Jahlil Okafor: Rotation Staple? -- Okafor had his most productive game of the year (& as a Net) this past weekend: 12 pts & 5 boards in a narrow defeat (87-85) v. a conference contender (BOS). Coach Kenny Atkinson's will likely ramp up Okafor's workload in the coming weeks as he further makes his way back into shape.
His output v. BOS was interesting - he went 5/12 in 12 min, contributed 2 blocks & 5 boards. Is he able to consistently produce in short doses or does he need heavier minutes to make an impact?
Trending Up: Joe Harris -- Joe Harris's ascension into a quality role player is a welcome surprise to some. His production has remained consistent for the majority of 2017-18 - last time out, Harris scored 10, grabbed 12! boards and defended well in 32 min. off the bench.
The wing rotation will be crowded (again) once Russell returns - if Harris continues to knockdown the long ball (shooting 37%), he'll find minutes at both the 2 & 3.