Brooklyn Nets vs. Atlanta Hawks: 5 Bold Predictions
Lopez Keeps Producing
Apr 4, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Brooklyn Nets center Brook Lopez (11) shoots the ball against the Atlanta Hawks in the first quarter at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
A big reason that the Nets qualified for the playoffs was the play of Brook Lopez. Lopez, whom the Nets attempted and looked like they were going to trade to the Oklahoma City Thunder at the trade deadline, have to happy it didn’t happen as he has been their best player since.
Lopez went on a tear since March, averaging over 20 points and nine rebounds a game to go with almost two blocks. Scoring has never been a problem for Lopez, as he is one of the most gifted scoring centers in the NBA, but the other facets he has always left something to be desired. But unlike the other players in the Nets ‘Big 3,’ Lopez turned his game up when they needed him most on both ends of the court.
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Like his teammates, Lopez hasn’t had huge games against the Hawks, as they got blown out during the regular season. But he is playing as well as anyone right now, and it will continue through the postseason.
Lopez has a chance to become a free agent this summer, and if he carries the strong finish to the season through the postseason, he could cash in big time as a free agent. He knows the Nets aren’t fully committed to him, so it is understandable if he wants to leave.
He should have a big market this summer if he chooses to, as he will play the best of any Net against the Hawks. Lopez will average 20 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two blocks in the series as the lone bright spot for Brooklyn.
Next: Who Wins?