Brooklyn Nets: Wilson Chandler will provide veteran leadership in a bench role

The Brooklyn Nets made incredible strides this offseason with the marquee signings but still ensured bench support in the process.

It may only be August, but the Brooklyn Nets have effectively put themselves in playoff contention according to many experts. The blockbuster signings of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving have raised the team’s profile and have the league forming more super duos everywhere to keep pace. Another signing with much less press but will be vital to the team’s long term success was the addition of veteran forward Wilson Chandler.

Chandler is entering his 12th NBA season and has experienced different spectrums of success throughout his career. He started and played on a struggling franchise while with the New York Knicks and eventually became a core player for years with the Denver Nuggets. He has also made stops with the Philadelphia 76ers and finished last season with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Chandler is a career 12.9 points per game scorer whether he’s starting or coming off the bench he’s proved to be a threat. His various roles on different teams have given him a good reputation amongst teammates and coaches in the league. Nets general manager Sean Marks released a statement regarding Wilson’s addition to the team.

"“Wilson is an experienced leader who will bring a veteran presence to our frontcourt rotation, His team-first mentality and high character will be excellent additions to our culture, both on and off the court. We are excited to welcome Wilson and his family to Brooklyn.”"

Wilson seems to be replacing fan favorite Jared Dudley who recently signed with the Los Angeles Lakers. Chandler will play some minutes this upcoming season since Durant is likely not to be available all year. At 6’9, 225 lbs Chandler can play a stretch four position because of his shooting touch and versatility from the outside.

Chandler is 32-years-old and showed some flashes of being able to play multiple positions with the 76ers during his tenure. He averaged 6.0 points per game while pulling down 4.2 rebounds serving in a complementary role to stars Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid in the lineup. The ability to play alongside superstar players without an ego made him even more attractive for Brooklyn during free agency.

It’s also helpful that Chandler has played in New York City and won’t have the hardest time adjusting entering the season. The Nets were wise to bring in another veteran in a reserve role showing that they are remaining consistent with the formula that got them in the postseason last year.