NBA Free Agency 2011: 3 Things Nene Hilario Brings to the Table

Nene Hilario is the best center on the market. He’s also one of the only true big men left in the league. There’s no question that the Nuggets would like to keep him around, but re-signing him seems unlikely.

If the lockout ends and we have basketball in 2011-2012, then Nene will become one of the hot names of the offseason as he brings a lot to the table.  

3. He's a True Center

At 28 years old, Nene could be a veteran staple under the rim for years to come. Signing the athletic center to a long-term contract would make sense for a lot of teams. As one of the only true centers left in the league, he’s going to be an extremely hot commodity this offseason.

With legitimate big men becoming a scarcity, contenders are going to jump at him.

2. He Has an Excellent Defensive Skill Set

At 6’11” and 250 lbs., Nene is somewhat undersized as a true center. However, he remains one of the better defenders at the position in the NBA.  He averaged a block and a steal per game and had a career-high 5.7 defensive rebounds per game in 2010-2011.

Nene’s defensive rebound numbers have improved in each of his last five full seasons. A new team could encourage him to play more with his back to the rim, which would further improve his stats.

1. He Is the Most Efficient Scorer in the NBA

Nene led the entire NBA in field goal percentage (.615) in 2010-11. He can hit jumpers from out around 15 feet and avoids shots he doesn’t feel he can make. He completely dominates undersized opponents down low, which puts him in great position for high percentage shots.

You want your big man to make good decisions down low. Nene is the most efficient in the league.

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