The Brooklyn Nets lost Paul Pierce this offseason, but they picked up a new Deron Williams, a healthy one. Williams struggled through the 2013-14 season, averaging 14.3 points and 6.1 assists per game -- his worst numbers since his rookie season. After offseason surgery to clean up both of his ankles, Williams is back on track this season: averaging 19.8 points and 7.0 assists.
Deron Williams feeling healthy, confident after offseason surgery
Williams says “It’s going to be hard to stop me,” and early returns this season agree.
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Williams has been more explosive in 2014-15, and on Saturday, he told reporters that he was just getting started now that he’s healthy. “I’m getting that confidence back where I step on the court and I feel like people can’t guard me,” Williams told Mike Mazzeo of ESPN. “I just feel like if you put one person on me, it’s gonna be hard to stop me, and I’m getting back to that.”
He looked like the Williams of old against the New York Knicks on Friday night, scoring 29 points on 10-15 shooting with six assists in 33 minutes as the Nets cruised to a 110-95 win.
Williams’ minutes are up in 2014-15, further proof that he’s healthier. After averaging only 32.4 minutes per game last season, he’s up to 37.2 this year. On top of that, he’s getting to the free throw line 5.2 times per game compared the 3.4 last year, which means he’s driving to the hoop more.
With Williams playing at a higher level, the Nets are too. They are 3-2 and playing much more efficient basketball compared to last season. They're ranked second in the league in offensive efficiency at 109.3 (last year they were 104.4). With neither the Chicago Bulls or Cleveland Cavaliers looking unbeatable in the East, perhaps Brooklyn can stake a claim as one of the conference's best as the season progresses. Williams' health will be of utmost importance.
Williams admits that he still isn’t his old self, but look out if he can get back. “This is the NBA, but before my injuries, I didn’t feel like anybody could stop me 1-on-1,” he told ESPN.
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