While the focus in this season’s success of the Nets are on its guards Spencer Dinwiddie, D’Angelo Russell, and Joe Harris (who topped Steph Curry in the All-Star three-point contest), a key cog that’s allowing the team’s resurgence is power forward Jarrett Allen. In this blog, sports enthusiast Michael Volitich looks at the importance of Allen in the Brooklyn basketball team.
As of this writing, the Nets are on 7th spot in the East with an even 36-36 record. With just three wins ahead of number nine Orlando Magic and two from 8th spot Miami Heat, the season is still in peril for Brooklyn. It doesn’t help that the team’s remaining games are mostly against playoffs-bound franchises. The role 6’11” Allen’s plays on both sides of the floor are thus very crucial if the Nets are to return to the postseason.
Allen is already among the top big men in the NBA East, his renown bolstered by stellar defensive plays against some of the league’s all-stars including Giannis Antetokounmpo, James Harden, and the King himself, LeBron James, whom he blocked in a drive a few weeks back. Of course, this put him quickly on the radar, as very few NBA players have been able to swat a LeBron dunk.
But the real beauty of Jarrett Allen’s game is his commitment to hustle, rebounding, and overall role in the middle. The 22nd overall pick of the 2018 draft is an imposing presence in the paint, the recipient of multiple passes from the team’s guards, and a dunking highlight.
If the Nets are going to pass the daunting test of its remaining games this regular season and get into the playoffs, Allen needs to figure more into the offense. He is already a solid defender. Brooklyn would do well to run more plays through and for their rising sophomore, adds Michael Volitich.
Michael Volitich is a Creative Writing student at the University of Florida. He is into literature, films, and sports, particularly famous athletes and teams. More on his hobbies and interests here.
Michael Volitich 