New Jersey Nets Get Their King James...No, Really

The Nets obviously missed out on landing the most coveted prize this free agency, LeBron James, and instead ended up with the dynamic duo who will form their own version of King James. The King being new GM Billy King and head honcho to take over for Rod Thorn. The James, being Damion James, rookie small forward out of the University of Texas.

Despite the fact that Billy King probably wasn’t Nets fans number one choice, he is a refreshing change from Rod Thorn. When it comes to drafting, King has an excellent track record.  His most recent selections include Thaddeus Young, Thabo Sefolosha, Andre Iguodala, and earlier successes Keith Van Horn, Larry Hughes, Todd MacCulloch, Speedy Claxton, and Samuel Dalembert. Rod Thorn, while a master of the trade, never seemed to have a good feel for the draft.  Nets fans, however, are hopeful Thorn was able to master his last draft as Nets president with the selections of Derrick Favors and Damion James.

When the Nets traded up for Damion James, Nets fans were confused and upset when they had to give up the very valuable first pick in the second round to move up only three spots in the draft from pick number 27 to 24. Once the Nets fans learned what they were getting with Damion James though, they were thrilled with the addition of a tough-nosed basketball player that played four years on one of the more accomplished college basketball teams during that time.

Avery Johnson describes his new import from Texas as, “very talented and he can come and play minutes at the three position right now. He’s tough, hard-nosed, and for a team that couldn’t play much defense last year, you’ve got to get some guys that can help you on that end of the floor.” James averaged a double-double last year, averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds per game. James adds a toughness and knack for rebounding the Nets have lacked since the days of Kenyon Martin.

Nets fans are hoping that their King James duo makes them forget about the “real” King James who can be found frolicking around South Beach with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR INTERVIEW WITH DAMION JAMES.

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