When DeAndre Jordan signed with the Nets, there was uncertainty about how the big man would fit in Brooklyn’s plans. With the Nets already featuring Jarrett Allen and Jordan still being a capable starter for other teams across the league, it seemed like an odd fit. But, he was part of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving’s decision to sign with the Nets in the first place.
Jordan started here and there at the beginning of the season, but Allen has been the one to take the opening tip for much of 2019-20. However, Jordan has been featured late in games as opposed to Allen more and more as the year has progressed.
Still, no Durant. Now no Irving after the point guard was only able to play in 20 games. Jordan has had very little time to play with the two guys he decided to finally buddy up with.
Yet, Kenny Atkinson said on Thursday, “DeAndre’s been great,” throughout it all, adding:
I’ve just been so pleased with his spirit and his attitude, how hard he’s playing. Then helping out our defense.
Atkinson has also noticed how Jordan’s attitude and presence as a veteran have led to the big man’s emergence as a leader:
You can look at it two ways, right? Like, he’s doing his job, that’s what he should do. But, on the other hand, we know that it could go differently. We’ve obviously — the proof is in the pudding. We finish games with him. I’m getting to know him better — personality-wise, getting to know his game better. That’s really helping, too. But I think he understands he has a real leadership role right now with a lot of young guys around him. And he’s taken that on seriously. I’ve just been really thrilled, and I expect him to continue. I think he’s going to take this as a personal and team challenge to lead this team in these last [28] games.
Jordan will need to keep doing what he’s done throughout the year if the Nets hope to remain competitive throughout the remainder of the season and into the playoffs.