Brooklyn Nets' Rookie Dariq Whitehead Ready to Make an Impact

After being picked 22nd in the 2023 NBA Draft, the Nets faithful have not seen rookie Dariq Whitehead in action.

© Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

Standing at 6’7” and weighing 220 pounds, Dariq Whitehead possesses a physique well-suited for the NBA, although a lingering foot injury played a role in his draft position, ultimately leading him to the Brooklyn Nets as the 22nd overall pick.

Whitehead has not played for the Nets so far this season as he’s still recovering. He was assigned to the Long Island Nets, Brooklyn’s G-League affiliate to help him ramp up and be involved in a five-on-five setting. Now, Whitehead himself has said that he’s raring to go and ready to help Brooklyn in their Playoff hunt.

"My recovery has been going good, I transitioned to playing five-on-five with no restrictions,” Whitehead told NetsDaily. “Right now, I feel like I’m around 75 to 80% due to not having my legs under me yet. Once I feel like I have complete control on how my legs feel, which should be another two weeks, I’ll be good to go.”

Whitehead can contribute to the Nets in the long-term future

As the youngest draft pick in Nets history, Whitehead is eager to contribute, yet he recognizes the organization's cautious approach to ensure his full recovery. Upon joining the Nets, he is poised to potentially serve as a backup to Mikal Bridges, offering explosive scoring off the bench.

At just 19 years old, Whitehead's youth is a significant factor, as he has ample room for growth and development. The Nets are wisely taking a patient approach, recognizing his potential. 

The team prioritizes his progress, ensuring he builds confidence with the Long Island Nets before integrating him fully into the main roster, safeguarding his well-being in the process.

Whitehead is remaining patient

Whitehead sees himself as a natural fit with Brooklyn. That is crucial to his development because he’s willing to buy into the system Jacque Vaughn is creating.

“I feel like I’ll fit in well. I can’t expect for me to be who I was immediately when I get back on the floor, especially while in the process of recovering because I have to be able to figure out defensive schemes,” Whitehead added. “But once I get my legs under me, I expect to go full throttle and be an even better player than before.”

Moving forward, the Duke product just has to stay patient and ready as he progresses into a role on the main Nets squad. He and 21st overall pick Noah Clowney will be playing Long Island to tip off their career but Brooklyn will have spots for them when they get called up.

Cameron Thomas Credits Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving for His Development