3 things we learned about the Brooklyn Nets on Opening Night

1. Joe Harris is more than a floor spacer

Some eyebrows were raised around the NBA this offseason with the Nets re-signed Harris to a four-year, $75 million deal to bring him back into the fold. Proponents of the deal correctly pointed out that his perimeter shooting ability makes him a perfect fit to play alongside Irving and Durant. It’s possible that even fans of the deal sold Harris’ potential impact a little short.

He did get up five three-pointers in 21 minutes of action. That’s always going to be the most important thing he does for this team. It’s worth noting that Durant even admonished him for passing up one jumper during the first quarter. The point here is that shooting from distance isn’t the only way Harris can positively impact his team.

The former Virginia standout also tallied seven rebounds on the night. That’s a tremendous return for a guy who lacks anything resembling elite size or athleticism. Instead, it’s a product of Harris blocking his man out and chasing the ball with maximum effort. His ability to help the Nets secure defensive rebounds will be a key for their transition game all season long.

Look for Harris to up his assist totals as he gets a little more comfortable with the team’s new offensive system. He only dropped a pair of dimes on Opening Night, but that total should rise. Specifically, he’ll be a guy who can really open this offense up when he’s able to pump-fake and dribble past his defender on the wing.

Harris doesn’t need to be anything more than a cog in the Nets’ machine this season, but he’s more than just a floor spacer. Opponents will underestimate him at their own peril.