For the first time in the Sean Marks–Kenny Atkinson era, the Brooklyn Nets will enter a new season facing high expectations. The Nets have thrived over the past couple of seasons in an underdog role, outperforming the talent on the roster through camaraderie and team spirit.
Devoid of talent or assets after the gut-wrenching Paul Pierce trade back in 2013, the Nets slowly managed to build a strong foundation and culture over the past three years under this regime, culminating in the addition of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and DeAndre Jordan this offseason.