Maxwell Lewis is cut from the Nets roster

Nets Make Roster Move, Advance Maxwell Lewis

On Friday, the Nets decided to let go of Maxwell Lewis, creating space on their roster following what was a historic draft pick in the NBA.

Lewis joined the team on December 29, when he was traded after Dorian Finney-Smith was sent to the Lakers. Unfortunately, shortly after, his left tibia broke, which was a setback that hindered his debut on New Year’s Day.

This injury dampened his chances to showcase his potential.

Importantly, though, Brooklyn needed to make room for their new rookie talent.

The team made a record-breaking acquisition of five players during Wednesday’s NBA Draft. Just two days later, Lewis was waived to clear the path for these newcomers.

These first-round picks will take the spotlight in the coming weeks as the Nets prepare to participate in the Las Vegas Summer League, featuring several undrafted rookies as well.

The Summer League schedule was announced on Friday, unveiling four initial games, although it guarantees teams at least five matchups.

Brooklyn will kick things off on July 10 against the Thunder at 5:30 PM on ESPN2. They’ll face the Wizards on July 13 at 8 PM, then battle the Knicks on July 15 at 6 PM, followed by a matchup against another team that night at 7:30 PM.

Initially, the first two games will take place at the Thomas & Mack Center, with the last ones hosted at the smaller Cocca Pavilion.

After these games, the Nets and others will compete in a tournament to vie for the Summer League title.

Brooklyn’s roster for this will include first-round picks Egol Denin, Nolan Traore, Drake Powell, Ben Saraf, and Danny Wolf.

Also, late-season signing Drew Tim is expected to play in the Summer League, according to CBS Sports. Meanwhile, 2023 first-round selection Darik Whitehead has faced injury challenges, but he could still be part of the upcoming mix along with some undrafted players.

Notably, 6-foot-11 forward Grant Nelson from Alabama and 6-foot-5 wing TJ Bamba from Oregon will both participate. Nelson might end up on a two-way contract, while Bamba, a Bronx native, was recognized on the Big Ten All-Defensive Team.

Sunday marks a crucial deadline for the Nets to decide on team options for Tim, Keon Johnson, Tyrese Martin, and Jalane Wilson, while also planning qualifying offers for restricted free agents Cam Thomas, Dayron Sharp, and Giare Williams.