The Nets not only had a fleeting interest in Andre Roberson before settling on Iman Shumpert, but worked out the defensive wing, a source told The Post.
Roberson’s return to the track with the Thunder in the bubble last season showed he was ready to play, and his training session for the Nets further emphasized his health. Now that Shumpert suffered a hamstring injury before even playing a second, one has to wonder if Sean Marks, general manager, would return to Roberson. A source close to the situation said Roberson would be available and a viable option.
The 6-foot-7, 210-pound Roberson not only looks in an essential position, but has family ties to the team. Not only was he teammates with Kevin Durant (and Nets assistant Royal Ivey) in Oklahoma City, as well as Spencer Dinwiddie in college, but his sister Arielle actually has a son Elijah with Dinwiddie.
“Yes, I think he’s healthy, he’s going to be a phenomenal addition to a contender,” Dinwiddie told The Post. “And of course, as an extended family, he will be able to share the journey and the high aspirations with him.”
Roberson was a defensive second team in 2016-’17, and was a defensive player of the year the following season before breaking his left pattern on January 27, 2018. After a long rehabilitation, he finally got back on track for the Thunder during the restart of Orlando, averaging 2.9 points and 3.9 boards in 12.4 minutes over seven games.
Much has been made about the defensive cratering of the Nets since they gave away Jarrett Allen, the center for edge protection. But Dinwiddie had a partially torn ACL, and the Nets, who traded both Taurean Prince and Caris LeVert, left gaping holes in their perimeter against small forwards and larger shooting guards.
With decisions due on February 24 on their non- or partially guaranteed contracts – Shumpert, as well as Chris Chiozza, Norvel Pelle and Noah Vonleh – a grid move seems at least feasible. If so, Roberson may be suitable.
Kevin Durant missed the Kings game, and will also miss the tail end of the rugby team in Phoenix on Tuesday.
The Nets will be linked with Cleveland center Andre Drummond if he is bought out. But the Cavaliers have not only fully engaged the veteran, but are in ‘active’ negotiations with the Raptors, according to The Athletic.