NBA free agency opens at 6 PM ET, allowing players to begin contract talks with new teams. As eyes have been on the Brooklyn Nets, the team has started making moves. Reports say the Nets have brought back unrestricted free agents Ziaire Williams and Day’Ron Sharpe on new deals.
Nets to Re-Sign Pair of Unrestricted Free Agents
On Sunday, the Nets extended a $5.99 million qualifying offer to Cam Thomas but declined offers for Williams and Sharpe, making both forwards unrestricted free agents. However, reports from this morning and afternoon indicate that both forwards have agreed to return to Brooklyn on two-year, $12 million deals.
Thomas, a fan favorite, becomes a restricted free agent. Although injuries limited him to 25 games during the regular season, he still averaged 24.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. His on-court impact and leadership remain vital to Brooklyn’s young roster.
Sharpe, 23, was the 29th overall pick in 2021 and has played four seasons with the Nets. This past season, he averaged 18.2 minutes, 7.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. Since being on the Nets, Sharpe has managed his way into the rotation by coming off the bench, playing in the G League, and even playing the center position when the roster dealt with injuries. Sharpe’s game is what every team wants from a forward, which is what he represents towards his rebounds, shooting, and defense.
Impact On The Roster
Despite knee and hamstring setbacks in 2024, Sharpe has shown resilience and steady growth in his development. Nets coach Jordi Fernandez has praised Sharpe’s work ethic and relentless hustle. Sharpe believes he’s just getting started and has more to offer on the court. In an interview with HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, he said, “I feel like I’m just scratching the surface. I’ve got a lot more in my game that a lot of people don’t know. I’ve shown I can rebound with effort and strength. I feel like I’ve got a complete game that I’m working on tightening up,”
Williams, 23, was the 10th pick in the 2021 Draft and arrived in Brooklyn via trade last offseason from the Memphis Grizzlies. This season, he averaged 10.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.3 assists across 63 games. He continued to show growth, using his size and agility to defend multiple positions and pressure opponents on both ends. When injuries hit the frontcourt, Williams stepped in at center and held his ground. His steady development and versatility suggest he could grow into more than just a role player.
The Last Word on the Nets Free Agency
The Nets have focused their rebuild around a younger roster. As free agency opens this evening, they remain positioned to make trades or sign players. Despite reaching agreements with Thomas, Sharpe, and Williams, the team still maintains flexibility. Brooklyn holds an estimated $34 million in cap space. With recent draft picks and key free-agent moves, the Nets may not be finished refining their strategy. Additionally, the front office still must decide whether to trade center Nic Claxton and forward Cam Johnson; both regularly tied to trade rumors.
For now, fans just hope the team’s next moves lead to a winning formula.
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