Did The Nets Draft Jayson Tatum? Draft History & Analysis

Hey guys! Ever wondered if Jayson Tatum, the Boston Celtics superstar, was ever a Net? It's a question that often pops up when discussing draft history and potential what-ifs in the NBA. Let's dive into the details of the 2017 NBA Draft to clarify whether the Nets had the chance to draft Tatum and what actually happened.

The 2017 NBA Draft: A Pivotal Moment

The 2017 NBA Draft was a significant event, featuring a class of talented players who have since become stars in the league. Names like Markelle Fultz, Lonzo Ball, and De'Aaron Fox were highly touted prospects. Jayson Tatum himself was among the top players expected to make a big impact. The Boston Celtics, holding the first overall pick after a trade with the Philadelphia 76ers, were in a prime position to select a franchise-altering player. The Los Angeles Lakers had the second pick, and the Philadelphia 76ers, after their trade, held the third. The Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings, and Orlando Magic followed, setting the stage for a draft filled with anticipation and strategic decisions.

For the Brooklyn Nets, this draft was particularly important as they looked to rebuild their roster. After several seasons of struggles and a lack of significant draft capital due to previous trades, the Nets were eager to add young talent to their team. Their draft position and strategy were crucial in shaping their future. The draft was also surrounded by numerous rumors and speculation, with teams jockeying for position and potential trades to secure their desired players. This atmosphere of uncertainty and high stakes added to the drama of the night, making it a memorable event for fans and analysts alike.

Draft Day Decisions and the Nets' Strategy

On draft night, the Boston Celtics selected Jayson Tatum with the third overall pick after trading down from the first pick with the Philadelphia 76ers. This move allowed the Celtics to acquire additional assets while still securing the player they coveted. Jayson Tatum's polished offensive game, versatility, and potential for growth made him an attractive option for the Celtics, who were looking to add a dynamic scorer to their roster. The Los Angeles Lakers selected Lonzo Ball with the second overall pick, fulfilling their need for a playmaker and point guard to lead their offense. The Philadelphia 76ers, with the first overall pick, chose Markelle Fultz, hoping he would become a star guard to complement their existing young core.

The Brooklyn Nets, however, did not draft Jayson Tatum. The Nets had acquired the 22nd overall pick from the Washington Wizards and selected Jarrett Allen, a promising young center with defensive upside and athletic ability. Allen's selection was seen as a move to address the Nets' need for rim protection and a long-term presence in the frontcourt. While Tatum was off the board by the time the Nets made their selection, it's worth noting that different draft scenarios could have altered the course of history. The Nets' decision to draft Allen reflected their assessment of their roster needs and their evaluation of the available talent at their draft position. The selection of Allen, while not as high-profile as Tatum, was still viewed as a strategic move to bolster their team's foundation for the future.

Why the Nets Didn't Draft Jayson Tatum

So, why didn't the Nets draft Jayson Tatum? The simple answer is that Tatum was selected by the Boston Celtics with the third overall pick, long before the Nets had their turn at pick number 22. By the time the Nets were on the clock, Tatum was already off the board. However, the circumstances surrounding the draft and the Nets' position warrant a deeper explanation.

The Draft Order and Team Needs

First and foremost, the draft order played a crucial role. The Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, and Philadelphia 76ers all had the opportunity to select before the Nets. Each of these teams had specific needs and priorities that influenced their draft decisions. The Celtics were looking for a versatile scorer, the Lakers needed a playmaker, and the 76ers were seeking a star guard. Jayson Tatum fit the Celtics' needs perfectly, and they made the move to secure him. The Nets, with the 22nd pick, were in a different position. They were focused on adding depth and addressing specific weaknesses in their roster, rather than swinging for the fences with a top-tier prospect.

Evaluating Talent and Team Strategy

Secondly, the Nets' evaluation of talent and their overall team strategy played a significant role. While Tatum was undoubtedly a highly regarded prospect, the Nets' front office had to consider a variety of factors when making their selection. They had to weigh Tatum's potential against the needs of the team, the other available players, and their long-term vision for the franchise. Ultimately, they decided that Jarrett Allen was the best fit for their team at that particular draft position. Allen's defensive prowess, athleticism, and potential for growth aligned with the Nets' goals of building a strong, versatile roster. While Tatum has since become a superstar, it's important to remember that draft decisions are complex and involve a multitude of considerations beyond just individual talent.

What If? Alternative Scenarios

Of course, it's always fun to speculate about