When the Nets picked up Noah Clowney’s $5.41 million team option for the 2026–27 season, they weren’t just going through the motions. This was a real vote of confidence in a young forward who’s still figuring out his NBA game. It also set a timeline for the franchise, a signal that they’re serious about shaping their future around him. Now, with Clowney in his third year and clearly getting better, Brooklyn’s got a big decision on its hands. Should the Brooklyn Nets lock Clowney up early with a long-term extension, or wait and maybe end up paying a steeper price if he keeps improving?
Clowney’s still on his rookie deal, and with this move, Brooklyn keeps him under control through 2027. That says a lot. Teams don’t lock in extra years for just anyone, especially not while they’re rebuilding, reshuffling, and hunting for the right pieces.
Why Clowney’s Extension Decision Matters For The Brooklyn Nets
Stats Outlook
Clowney can sign an extension now with the Brooklyn Nets. If the Nets move fast, they could get him at a reasonable salary based on what he’s doing today, not what he might become. If they wait? Sure, they get more time to evaluate, but they also risk his price tag shooting up if he keeps trending upward, especially if his defense or efficiency jumps another level.
He’s making that decision tougher, too. This season, Clowney’s been more productive and consistent than ever. Right now, he’s averaging about 13.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game as a starter. He’s gaining more trust from the coaches and more responsibility all around.
A Case For Clowney
Offensively, he’s showing more range. He’s taking more shots, stretching defenses, and attacking off the dribble instead of just cleaning up easy looks. His three-point shooting still needs work; despite that, he is currently the 8th worst shooter in metrics in the NBA as of now, he’s not afraid to launch them. That alone forces defenders to pay attention and opens up the offense for everyone else.
On defense, his activity’s gone up, too. He’s contesting shots, helping on the weak side, and positioning himself better for rebounds. He’s not an elite defender yet, but you can see him picking things up, especially when it comes to team defense and discipline.
Compared to last season, Clowney’s on a real upward path. He averaged about 9.1 points and 3.9 rebounds in just under 23 minutes per game back then. Now, his numbers are up across the board, and it’s not just garbage time stats; he’s genuinely doing more in more ways that matter.
One of the biggest shifts? He’s way more involved in the offense. He touches the ball more, makes quicker reads, and is racking up more assists. That shows growth in his basketball IQ and decision-making, not just raw numbers.
And defensively, he’s helping close out possessions and cutting down on opponents’ second chances. These things don’t always jump out in the box score, but over a season, they add up.
Advanced Stats Shows The Bigger Picture
Clowney isn’t just logging more minutes. He’s making them count, all over the floor. If you just glance at the box score, you might miss how much Clowney really means to the Nets.
But let’s dig a little deeper, and it’s clear: when Clowney’s out there, Brooklyn’s defense tightens up, giving up about three fewer points per 100 possessions. That’s no small thing for a team that’s struggled to get stops. He’s crashing the boards harder now, too, which shuts the door on second-chance buckets and keeps the Nets from getting burned in transition. Stuff like that, just ending possessions cleanly, can go a long way in holding a lineup together and says a lot about his real defensive value.
On offense, Clowney’s been given more to do, and he hasn’t folded. He’s using more possessions, but it’s not just him forcing shots; his assist numbers are up as well, so he’s making smarter reads. The Nets’ lineups move better with him, too. His shooting stretches the floor, dragging defenders out and giving the guards room to attack. Even on nights when his shot isn’t falling, teams can’t just ignore him out there, and that opens everything up.
Contract Talks: Where Do The Nets Go From Here?
Clowney’s deal right now is nothing crazy, especially for what he brings to the team. If they extend him early, they can probably keep him in a reasonable salary range, right in line with what you’d pay a young forward who’s still figuring things out. Deals like that usually work out well; they’re not just affordable but easy to move if the team needs to shake things up.
Of course, Brooklyn could wait and let Clowney hit restricted free agency. That gives them options, but it’s a gamble. If Clowney explodes next season, suddenly there’s a bidding war, and matching a big offer can mess with the team’s long-term plans.
Ever since Brooklyn decided to step away from chasing stars and collect on assets for a full-on rebuild of the team, they’ve doubled down on patience and internal development. Young guys get chances, but the team doesn’t rush into big commitments. Clowney fits right in with this approach. He’s young, adaptable, and just keeps getting better. Giving him an extension would send a clear message: hard work and progress matter here. Plus, it would bring some much-needed stability as the team continues to rebuild and search for its next big thing.
Outlook: Through The Process
Clowney’s contract situation isn’t exactly making headlines, but for the Nets, it’s a big deal. He’s gone from a project to a guy you can count on every night, and now the team has to make a call sooner than they probably expected.
Look at the numbers, watch the games, and one thing is clear: Clowney is clearly moving in the right direction. No matter what Brooklyn does, their choice here will say a lot about how they see their future: do they double down on development, stay smart with their money, and keep their long game in mind?
One thing’s for sure, two things are for certain: Clowney’s earned his spot in this conversation. He’s not just another prospect anymore. He’s part of Brooklyn’s future, and how the team chooses to invest in him will shape what comes next. Regardless of what happens, Clowney’s extension is something important for the Brooklyn Nets.
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