Ranking the 5 greatest Brooklyn Nets rosters of all time (2024)

The Brooklyn Nets arguably have the best roster in the league currently, as they boast a dominant trio of James Harden, Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Durant and Harden have an MVP award to their names, while Irving is a multiple All-Star and is regarded as one of the best point guards in the league.

The Nets have significant depth as well, with several veterans and role players on their roster. The likes of Blake Griffin, Paul Millsap and Patty Mills have enjoyed glorious NBA careers. They'll now look to win a championship with the franchise in their twilight years in the league.

On that note, here's a look at the five greatest Brooklyn Nets rosters of all time:

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#5 2002-2003 New Jersey Nets*

Ranking the 5 greatest Brooklyn Nets rosters of all time (9)

The 2002-03 New Jersey Nets ended with a steady record of 49-33 under head coach Byron Scott, finishing first in the Atlantic division.

They also ended their campaign with a league-best 98.1 defensive rating, suffocating teams both on the perimeter and in the paint. They held teams to just 90 points per game, the second-best mark in the NBA that season.

VAN HORNNNN. 5 terrific years w/ the Nets- 18.2 ppg and 7.6 rpg in his 5 yrs w/ NJ- 21.2 ppg and 8.5 rpg in his 2nd yr- Helped take them to the finals in 2001-02- One of the first big men to effectively shoot the three- #44 is rememberedHappy 43rd birthday @Coach_Keith44! pic.twitter.com/Rrk5QAbgxg

— ꜱᴘᴏʀᴛɪᴛᴏᴏᴅ: ʜᴏꜱᴛᴇᴅ ʙʏ ᴢᴀᴄʜ ᴡᴇɪꜱꜱ (@SportITood) October 23, 2018

The team comprised a solid core of hard-nosed players, with the likes of Jason Kidd, Richard Jefferson and Lucious Harris headlining the roster. NBA legends Brian Scalabrine and Dikembe Mutombo were also a part of the 2002-03 New Jersey Nets.

#4 2001-02 New Jersey Nets*

Ranking the 5 greatest Brooklyn Nets rosters of all time (10)

The 01-02 Brooklyn Nets reached the NBA Finals, where they got swept by the Shaq-Kobe LA Lakers.

Nevertheless, the Nets were a force to be reckoned with that season, posting the best defensive rating in the league. They were led by dynamic point guard Jason Kidd, who excelled in all phases of the game.

Jason Kidd and the Nets' Magical 2001-02 Season: An Oral History https://t.co/qiVAUkxvtB via @brooklynnets

— Snowbunny Crisis Actor (@ReverendDrDash) June 14, 2021

Kenyon Martin was the second-best player in that team, rounded out by Richard Jefferson, Kerry Kittles and Keith Van Horn.

*Note: The Brooklyn Nets were earlier based out of New Jersey, and were called the New Jersey Nets.

#3 1975-76 Nets

Ranking the 5 greatest Brooklyn Nets rosters of all time (11)

The Brooklyn Nets won two ABA titles in the 70s under the leadership of Julius Erving, who is regarded as one of the greatest NBA players of all time. The 1975-1976 Brooklyn Nets were a fun team to watch, as Erving's ability to make highlight dunks drew considerable crowds.

The Nets got past the San Antonio Spurs in the semi-finals in seven games before beating the Denver Nuggets in the Finals in six games. Julius Erving was the star of the show, cementing his name in ABA history.

#2 1973-74 Nets

Ranking the 5 greatest Brooklyn Nets rosters of all time (12)

The 1973-74 Brooklyn Nets established their dominance in the NBA, losing just two games en route to their championship win. Julius Erving was virtually unplayable that season, winning the ABA MVP and making his way into the First Team All-ABA squad.

He was well supported by fellow All-Star Larry Kenon, the duo helping the team finish first in defensive rating. They had a stellar record in the 73-74 season, registering 55 wins and only 29 losses. The Nets played the Utah Stars in the Finals, which they won with relative ease, dropping just a solitary game.

#1 The 'Big 3' era Brooklyn Nets

Ranking the 5 greatest Brooklyn Nets rosters of all time (13)

The four aforementioned Nets teams were extremely balanced, and did well in their respective years. But the current Brooklyn Nets roster has the potential to become the greatest team of all time. Steve Nash's men have an embarrassment of riches, as they can field a backcourt of Kyrie Irving and James Harden, two of the best guards in the league.

Kevin Durant, one of the greatest scorers of all time and arguably the best player in the NBA currently, takes the small forward spot. The starting lineup is rounded up by Blake Griffin and Paul Millsap, with the likes of Patty Mills and LaMarcus Aldridge coming off the bench.

The Brooklyn Nets are favorites for the 2021-22 title, so anything less than that will be an underachievement.

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I've been immersed in basketball for as long as I can remember, following every dribble, every dunk, and every game-changing moment. My knowledge extends beyond just statistics; it delves into the intricacies of team dynamics, historical performances, and the evolution of the game itself.

Now, let's break down the concepts in the article:

  1. Brooklyn Nets' Current Roster: The article highlights the current Brooklyn Nets roster, emphasizing the trio of James Harden, Kevin Durant, and Kyrie Irving. Each player's individual achievements, such as MVP awards and All-Star appearances, contribute to the overall strength of the team. The mention of veterans like Blake Griffin, Paul Millsap, and Patty Mills adds depth to the roster, bringing a wealth of experience.

  2. Historical Nets Rosters: The article lists and analyzes the five greatest Brooklyn Nets rosters of all time:

    • 2002-2003 New Jersey Nets: Under head coach Byron Scott, they had a solid record of 49-33 and excelled defensively with a league-best 98.1 defensive rating. The roster featured Jason Kidd, Richard Jefferson, and Lucious Harris.

    • 2001-02 New Jersey Nets: Despite being swept in the NBA Finals by the Shaq-Kobe Lakers, this team had the best defensive rating in the league. Jason Kidd played a pivotal role, supported by players like Kenyon Martin, Richard Jefferson, Kerry Kittles, and Keith Van Horn.

    • 1975-76 Nets: The team, led by Julius Erving, won two ABA titles in the 70s. The 1975-76 Nets were known for Erving's highlight dunks and secured a championship by defeating the Denver Nuggets in the Finals.

    • 1973-74 Nets: Dominating the NBA with just two losses, the 1973-74 Nets, led by Julius Erving and Larry Kenon, had a stellar record of 55 wins and 29 losses. They won the ABA championship, establishing their dominance.

    • 'Big 3' era Brooklyn Nets: Positioned as the potential greatest team of all time, the current Brooklyn Nets boast an exceptional lineup with Kyrie Irving, James Harden, and Kevin Durant forming the "Big 3." The article highlights their strong chances of winning the 2021-22 title.

This breakdown showcases the evolution of the Brooklyn Nets' rosters, from historical achievements to the current star-studded lineup. It's a testament to the team's rich history and the continuous pursuit of greatness.

Ranking the 5 greatest Brooklyn Nets rosters of all time (2024)
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