Inside The Nets

Day'Ron Sharpe is set to play against the Boston Celtics

After a month away from the Brooklyn lineup, Sharpe is back with the Nets.

Peter Sunjic

© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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Brooklyn boasted the best one-two punch in the center position before Day’Ron Sharpe’s injury. Nic Claxton is the starting center, but Day’Ron has become arguably the best backup center in the NBA.

The Nets have missed Sharpe's contributions as a reliable center off the Nets bench. He averages 7.5 points and seven rebounds in just 16 minutes per game. That kind of production as a backup makes Brooklyn such a tough team to play against because they always have a big man gobbling up the rebounds.

“I felt it was long, you know? I felt good and ready to be back. I look forward to playing tomorrow, bringing energy. Just play tomorrow and see how it goes,” Sharpe said after practice ahead of the game against Boston. “It just felt good to sweat and get tired for real. I just missed the grind and missed playing. I’m happy to be back.”

Sharpe gives Claxton more time to rest

While Nic has been stellar when Sharpe was injured, the former Georgia Bulldog still needs rest. It is tough to keep him out there for more than 35 minutes every game, which elevates the risk of injury.

Having Day’Ron back makes the rotation more balanced since Coach Jacque Vaughn won’t be playing small-ball centers often. A big-man rotation of Clax and Sharpe can lead the Nets to more wins because they always have a rebounder on the floor.

Day’Ron’s return is good for playmakers like Dennis Schroder and Ben Simmons because they know the bigs are excellent pick-and-roll partners. Every time they need to throw a lob or a precise bounce pass, Nic or Day’Ron will be ready to catch and finish efficiently.

Sharpe gives the Nets more possessions

The former North Carolina Tar Heel is arguably the best offensive rebounder in the league. He is averaging 15.7 rebounds per 36 minutes, and 6.3 of those are offensive rebounds. That kind of production is rare for superstar centers, but Day’Ron does it off the bench.

Rebounding like that helps the Nets get more possessions and shot attempts. Players like Mikal Bridges and Cameron Thomas benefit from this since they will likely be open from the perimeter with these offensive rebounds.

With both Nic and Day’Ron doing this, expect the Nets to get a significant boost to their offense, given they have easier looks than just playing with one big in the rotation.

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Peter Sunjic
PETER SUNJIC

Peter's journey with basketball commenced in the first grade, and it has since evolved into an integral part of his life. Standing on the brink of a potential professional playing career, Peter ultimately chose to pursue a degree in Political Science and Journalism in Zagreb, Croatia. Despite this academic pursuit, his deep-rooted love for the game of basketball endured, undiminished. Now, as a writer and editor, Peter finds an avenue to channel his unwavering passion for basketball-related news and analysis. Whether it's deciphering the latest happenings or delving into the lore of old-school basketball, he covers every corner of the NBA world.

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