D.J. Wilson Could Solve Brooklyn’s Big Man Issues

Wilson’s weak-side shot blocking is already solid. He averaged 1.5 blocks per game during the 2016-17 season, including this game-saver in the Big Ten tournament versus Purdue:

While Wilson’s shot-blocking skill will be useful at the next level, his true defensive potential lies in his ability to cover the pick and roll. Wilson is somewhat skinny for a big man, but he has the size to switch onto nearly anyone in the post. He also has the lateral quickness to keep up with nearly any guard on the perimeter.

Wilson’s defensive instincts are not yet up to par, and he occasionally gets lost on that end of the floor. However, his frame and athletic tools make him a nearly perfect fit in any switch-heavy lineup. With Caris LeVert and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson already in the fold, the Nets could capably switch nearly any matchup from 2 to 4. That alone would be a serious boon to a defense that struggled mightily for almost all of the 2016-17 season.

Weaknesses: Passing and Bulk

Although D.J. Wilson is nearly a perfect fit for the modern NBA, there are some concerns on both ends of the floor that might limit his overall value.