A New Home For Warren
NBA Analysis Network
According to Shams Charania, Indiana Pacers forward TJ Warren has signed with the Brooklyn Nets.
Warren was one of the most interesting free agents on the market this offseason: a big scoring wing will always be in demand in this league. However, he has played only four games over the past two years due to a stress fracture in his left foot. The last time he played a full season was 2019-20 in the bubble, where he exploded onto the national scene with a 53-point performance against the 76ers. He’s been an excellent scorer for years, averaging just under 20 points per game for three consecutive years prior to his injury. His scoring prowess is undeniable, but availability is the best ability, and Brooklyn will need him at full strength to remain competitive in a loaded Eastern Conference.
Jim Davis/Globe Staff
Brooklyn is a fascinating landing spot for Warren. Last season, the Nets were swept in the first round of the playoffs, and they struggled to score aside from Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant. Nearly all of the offense was funneled through those two players, and that was not a winning formula. Adding Warren should take a lot of pressure off the two stars, if they decide to stick around. With both Irving and Durant involved in trade rumors this offseason, Warren may end up being the primary scorer for this team by the time the summer ends. The Nets also added former Utah Jazz wing Royce O’Neal this week, potentially indicating they are expecting Durant to play for a different team next season.
There are many, many questions to be answered: Will Warren return to his scoring peak? Will he back up Durant, or will he start? Will the Nets trade one or both of their stars? How does former first overall pick Ben Simmons factor in? Nobody has any idea what the Nets will look like next season, but one thing is certain: TJ Warren is now on their roster.