NBA: Nets need to add depth, size

The Brooklyn Nets traded for James Harden just over a week ago, pairing him with Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Joe Harris, and a list of role players. While we've seen Steve Nash's team play some really high level and efficient offense, they've also struggled to play consistent defense and their lack of depth has become obvious. The Nets are 3-2 since acquiring Harden with wins over the Magic, Bucks, and Heat, but Irving has only played in the last three.

Brooklyn's offense is second best in the league and they've been even better in the last five games, scoring 124.6 points per game and shooting 42.2% from 3-point range. Durant, Harden, and Irving have each looked comfortable on the offensive end, but the team lost back to back games to Cleveland as Collin Sexton and Andre Drummond combined for 99 points alone. Brooklyn's given up 634 points (126.8 per game) and rank 27th in scoring defense since the Harden trade.

This team has what it takes to contend for a championship this year but after having to give up a lot of their depth and size to get Harden, they will likely look to add a veteran before the trade deadline. According to Sam Amico, the Nets are expected to make a run at Javale McGee. If Brooklyn can step up their transition defense and protect the rim a bit better, which should come as they log more minutes together, they'll challenge for a spot in the NBA Finals for the first time since 2003.

Photo Credit: Bleacher Report.