NBA Season Preview 2018-19: 10 players who will take the leap this season

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 07: Tobias Harris #34 of the Los Angeles Clippers controls the ball during the game against the Denver Nuggets at Staples Center on April 7, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images) /

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BROOKLYN, NY – FEBRUARY 6: Jarrett Allen #31 of the Brooklyn Nets shoots a free throw against the Houston Rockets on February 6, 2018 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

8. Jarret Allen

The Nets have been focused on developing their young core for a few years now, and though the challenge of rebuilding without lottery picks is a difficult one, General Manager Sean Marks has found a way to acquire undervalued young talent. One such diamond in the rough is big man Jarrett Allen, who was selected with the No. 22 pick in last year’s NBA draft.

Allen, only 20 years old, put together a solid rookie season where he started in the Nets’ last 31 games. In those games, Allen took advantage of his increased role and put up better all-around scoring and rebounding numbers, establishing himself as a key part of the Nets’ young core.

Allen was pretty effective in the pick-and-roll last year, averaging 1.157 points per possession as the roll man (per Synergy Sports). He was also an above-average rim protector last season who fought hard for rebounds on both ends. Expect a solid year from Allen as he looks to emerge as one of the better young centers in the league.

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