Brooklyn Nets fans, buckle up, because guard Keon Ellis just dropped some serious truth bombs about what he’s bringing to the court after the team’s abysmal 20-62 finish last season. Ellis, one of the fresh faces the Nets grabbed this offseason to try and turn things around, wasted no time explaining exactly why he picked Brooklyn and what everyone can expect when the ball tips off for the new season.
“I’m Gonna Play Hard Every Night” and the Nets Need That Fire
Ellis made it crystal clear what his M.O. is during an interview at the Las Vegas Summer League. He didn’t mince words, saying, “I’m gonna play hard every night. Play hard, winning an effort, and that’s just kind of what I’m built on, and just trying to win.” This guy is all about grit, all about hustle, and honestly, after a 20-62 campaign, that’s exactly the kind of energy a young roster desperately needs. He’s not just talking the talk either; Ellis has an expectation of himself to be the best perimeter defender out there on any given night. He believes putting in that kind of effort “definitely put yourself in a position to win, and then winning will come.” That’s the mindset you want walking into a locker room trying to rebuild.
3-and-D Skillset Arrives, Thanks to an Old Friend
So, why Brooklyn for the 26-year-old? Turns out, his relationship with Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez, which started back when they were both with the Sacramento Kings, was a huge factor in his free-agency decision. Smart move to follow a coach you trust, right? Beyond the relationship, Ellis brings a “3-and-D skillset and veteran presence” that the Nets are definitely in need of. Last season, split between the Kings and Cleveland Cavaliers after a three-team trade that sent De’Andre Hunter to Sacramento, Ellis averaged 6.7 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.0 assists. He shot 44.0% from the field and a solid 36.3% from deep. Cleveland needed to clear cap space to re-sign James Harden, so Ellis found a perfect fit with the Nets, where he’s looking at ample playing time to show off what he can do.
Ellis has spoken directly to the fanbase, explaining what to look forward to next season. It’s clear he’s ready to bring the fire, the defense, and that “winning effort” to a team that’s hungry to improve on last year’s dismal record. Get ready to see a guy who leaves it all on the court every single night.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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