the 15th man

So first the Nets cut Sean Williams, their troubled but talented 17th pick in the 2007 draft. Then they used that roster spot on Shawne Williams from Dallas, the troubled but talented 17th pick in the 2006 draft. It was speculated they would cut Williams as he was in the trade mostly for logistical reasons, but then the Nets announced they would take a free look at him.

A few days later, however, they announced they cut Williams. Turns out he was running his own little pharmacy and the Feds didn't like it(his mugshot from the arrest is the picture in this post). Before the news broke of Williams codeine concotions some people speculated that perhaps he was cut to make room for another trade. That was exciting. Then the real reason came out. That was realistic and sobering. Ladies and gentlemen, your 2009-2010 New Jersey Nets!

So that leaves the Nets with 14 players. If I had it my way, the league would pass a temporary rule that allows the Nets to play all 14 at once on the court. Admit it, you thought for a second, "They'll still lose!" Probably. Regardless, that's not going to happen, so we'll just focus on signing and/or trading for a 15th player.

But what are the options? Other than trading, we could call up a D-Leauger. That may not be a bad idea. A hungry young player who hasn't been around the culture of losing and is excited to just be in the league might be a shot in the arm. And before you say there is no talent in the D-Leauge, remember that Chris Anderson aka Birdman and Chuck Hayes, the 6'6" starting center(that's right 6 foot 6 center), were D-League callups. So yeah, if the Nets can get an effective white, overly tattooed energy forward with a bad mohawk or a midget center from the D-League, by all means, they should do so.

The other option is to sign a free agent. Perhaps an over the hill star who is hoping for one last chance at NBA glory. The Bucks filled the vacancy left by Michael Redd's faberge legs with two time all star Jerry Stackhouse. Who is avaible for the Nets? Well it would be fitting for this season if they reunited with troubled former Net Stephon Marbury, but he just signed a contract to play in China(yes that's right...China). I am not sure if it is possible, but perhaps the Nets could lure Josh Childress back to the states. Whatever they do, the Nets will still be 3-37 tomorrow morning. tear.