Inside The Nets

Lonnie Walker IV Feels Great About his Performance so far this Season

Walker has been one of the Brooklyn Nets’ best players this season, even if he’s coming off the bench.

Peter Sunjic

© John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
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Demonstrating once again why he is among the league's most valuable bench players, Lonnie Walker IV scored 20 points and hit six three-pointers in a standout performance against the Chicago Bulls.

It was a magnificent performance yet again for Walker as he has proven to be the most consistent player for the Brooklyn Nets this season. He has been a major contributor since the second game of the 2023/24 season, averaging 15.7 points per game on 49.7% from the field and 47.1% from three.

“I'm on the mend, and I think that's something that I really do carry on my shoulders and I carry on my chest: understanding my capabilities,” Walker said in his post-game presser. “I don't want to be cocky but I expected this because I know what type of player I am. And I really do carry the disrespect on my chest and my shoulders every single day that I wake up.”

Doubt as motivation

During the 2022/23 season, Lonnie was playing for the Los Angeles Lakers where he was rarely used as a rotational piece. 

Although Lonnie had remarkable moments, such as his standout Game 4 performance against the Golden State Warriors, he didn't receive sufficient opportunities, prompting his decision to seek a change of scenery and join the Nets this offseason.

That decision has paid off already because Lonnie is one of the best bench players in the league, and a strong candidate for Sixth Man of the Year due to his consistency and efficiency.

Every time he steps onto the court, you can tell that he is out to prove something. That is good for the Nets because they need a scoring punch without Cameron Thomas in the lineup due to an injury.

Walker’s performances look sustainable

Providing Lonnie Walker IV with ample opportunities will sustain his current level of performance into the foreseeable future. While his efficiency may experience a slight dip over the season, consistent touches will offer him scoring chances. 

Not limited to three-point shooting, Walker has evolved into one of the Nets' premier off-the-dribble players, showcasing finesse around the rim.

Coach Jacque Vaughn's continued trust in him assures that Walker will remain one of the team's standout players, consistently delivering on that trust.

Brooklyn Nets Overcome Slow Start, Blaze Past Chicago Bulls with Sizzling Shooting

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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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