Why Jacque Vaughn values having Lonnie Walker IV on the Nets

Lonnie Walker IV has carved out a solid role as a spark plug off the Brooklyn Nets bench.

© Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

After an impressive showing with the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2023 Playoffs, where he played a crucial role in eliminating the defending champions Golden State Warriors with a comeback performance in Game 4 of the Western Conference Semifinals, Lonnie Walker IV made the decision to join the Brooklyn Nets in the 2023 offseason. 

Under the guidance of Coach Jacque Vaughn, Walker has become an invaluable asset off the bench, as exemplified in the Nets' first win of the 2023/24 season against the Charlotte Hornets, where he contributed 19 points.

“We ended up starting Lonnie in the second half. This goes a long way when you go to a guy like I did before the season. I told him that he was part of the rotation and I wouldn’t trim it to nine,” coach Vaughn said in the post-game presser after beating the Hornets. “I want him to get a feel of who we are, how he was playing, get to know him, then I don’t play him the first game. For him to still have the commitment to the team… To me, that speaks to who he is. How we can build with him, and he has shown the ability that he can produce.”

Walker IV is willing to keep playing his role

Walker IV has accepted that he will play a valuable role off the bench as the next man up whenever either Cameron Thomas or Mikal Bridges need a rest. He is not only contributing with his scoring, but Walker is doing all the little things, such as setting screens, hustling for the ball, and creating space for his teammates.

Hammer time 🔨 @doefinney_10 pic.twitter.com/SB4kiq4F3L

— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) October 31, 2023

The 24-year-old even makes plays for his teammates with pinpoint passes, creating more opportunities for them to score. He excels in his role as a bench player, demonstrating a clear understanding of his responsibilities as one of the first players to come off the bench.

The Nets have underrated depth

Despite missing three starters, the Nets have demonstrated their ability to compete and secure victories, a testament to their depth. Lonnie played a crucial role in this, starting the second half against the Hornets when Spencer Dinwiddie suffered an ankle injury.

.@lonniewalker_4 created S P A C E pic.twitter.com/REIw6B5k9u

— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) October 30, 2023

Brooklyn faced no problems as Walker shone alongside fellow reserves Royce O’Neale, Day’Ron Sharpe, and Dennis Smith Jr. Additionally, the bench boasts players like Trendon Watford and Harry Giles III, poised to make meaningful contributions when called upon. 

Coach Vaughn's confidence in the team's success this season stems from their remarkable depth, extending beyond key players like Thomas and Bridges.

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