Nets Evaluate Roster in Extended Audition Season
The current phase of the season for the Nets feels a lot like extended auditions as they delve into the deeper layers of their roster, searching for a player worth keeping around.
Enter Josh Minott. Why not give him a shot?
In what’s been his most substantial showing in Brooklyn since joining the team as a trade-deadline addition, Minott put on quite a performance in Atlanta on Thursday.
He lit up the scoreboard with 24 points, hitting 4 out of 7 from beyond the arc and going 8 of 10 at the free-throw line. Defensively, he shined as well, contributing three blocks and three steals—both career highs along with his scoring numbers.
This was a significant night for Minott, especially considering he hasn’t had many opportunities to showcase his skills since coming over from Boston earlier this year.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment,” Minott, 23, reflected on his breakout performance. “I wouldn’t say it’s meaningless, but it’s just one game. I’m happy with how I played, though not completely satisfied. Ultimately, it’s about getting the right numbers on the board.”
The situation in Brooklyn during this tanking phase lacks any real victories, but they plan to use the remaining games for roster evaluation. They have options—like a 10-day contract for player Malachi Smith, a rookie who deserves assessment, as well as pending team options.
Minott certainly stands out among the current roster.
His six combined blocks and steals in that game tied a record set by Nic Claxton, showcasing his nearly 7-foot wingspan and allowing him to disrupt the opposition effectively. His athleticism is evident, particularly when driving to the basket.
“Yeah, he had this remarkable dunk against the Celtics that really caught everyone’s attention, and he did something similar recently against Detroit,” joked coach Jordi Fernandez. “You see him charging to the hoop, and you just think, ‘Wow, he’s gonna make that,’ and he does. It’s always a thrilling moment.”
“He’s been doing a great job picking up full-court pressure. We’re asking him to push the envelope, and he’s really rising to the challenge. I’m looking forward to seeing more of him.”
Initially, Minott had a spot in the Celtics’ rotation before an ankle injury sidelined him for five weeks, stalling his momentum in Boston. The Nets picked him up for a modest cash deal at the trade deadline, and now, an opening due to teammate injuries could lead to more playing time for him. Following a noteworthy game against the Hawks, he’s decisively making the most of his chances.
“It was all about my teammates getting me the openings when I cut. They deserve the credit for finding me,” he stated.
“I’m aiming to keep the rhythm going. I know the team had that before me, and I’m trying to plug in, impact the game positively, and elevate our shared values.”
Fernandez echoed this sentiment, “He was assertive out there. He’s a rebounder, and his size is an asset for us. We managed to put together a solid game.”
Meanwhile, player Grant Nelson is set to return to Long Island but will miss the rest of the G League season due to patellar tendonitis, which might explain why he wasn’t extended an additional 10 days following his acquittal.
According to sources, Brooklyn is also set to bring Malachi Smith on board for a 10-day evaluation. During his time in the G League, he averaged 14.4 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.5 rebounds while shooting 42% from three-point range.
Injuries continue to affect the roster, as Claxton and Drake Powell sat out their recent game, and with players like Sharp and Demin already ruled out for the season. Michael Porter Jr. is questionable for the next match against the 76ers, dealing with a sprained right ankle, while Ochai Agbaji is likely to play through some left ankle soreness.
