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Devin Harris
#34 – Devin Harris – New Jersey Nets
Season: 21.6 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 6.5 apg, 43% fg percentage, 83% ft percentage, 30% 3pt percentage
Career: 11.4 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 4.0 apg, 46% fg percentage, 80% ft percentage, 31% 3pt percentage
One of the fastest players in the game, Devin Harris is enjoying his breakout season for the New Jersey Nets. Acquired by the Nets in a mid-season trade last year for Jason Kidd, Harris exploded onto the scene as a prolific scorer and passer with some big shoes to fill. Kidd’s departure from the swamp left a bad taste in everyone’s mouth – but Harris is quickly turning heads; almost literally with how fast he’s developed.
Harris still has a lot of room to grow – and that’s should be pretty scary for the rest of the league. He’s lightening quick, has learned to hit an open jumper and shoots a fair percentage from the line. He’s not a threat to bomb away from three-land but he doesn’t really have to be. He weaves lanes, finds openings, and will pass when he doesn’t have a shot.
The Good
Harris’ speed is a great weapon that opens up a lot of options for him and the Nets. If he’s got his defender beat – he’ll take it to the rim. If help comes – he’ll pass the ball off. It’s really that simple. Harris isn’t going to back you down and shoot a jump hook prayer. He’s a smart player who’ll make the right decision more often than not.
The Bad
Harris still has a lot of growing up to do. Harris has never really held down a full time starting gig and it remains to be seen if the strain of an 82 game season will takes its toll on him. His three-ball also needs a lot of work. It’s nice to have a pure drive and kick point guard, but he needs to be able to hit them when called upon. At the very least it’ll keep defenders on him on the perimeter so he can blow by them.
The Recap
- Quick first step.
- Will get to the line – will hit free throws.
- Good mid-range game.
- Turnover numbers a bit high.
- No real threat beyond the arc.
Tips and Tricks
As with all quick point guards you want to keep Harris in front of you. The second he gets beside you – he’s already gone and you’d better be screaming for help. Make Harris a shooter. You’ll live with a jump shot if it keeps him from getting your forwards into trouble and getting to the line. Harris is crafty – but he’s not unstoppable. He shoots a respectable percentage on the floor, so you’ll have to challenge his jumper, but if you’re going to let him by you, make sure it’s anything but a straight line. He’s way too fast for you to give him that.
Final Thoughts
Harris is the future of the Nets. He’s a quick, pass-first, point and will be an all-star for many years. Once he learns to hit an open shot consistently he’ll strike even more fear into his opposition. Right now, Harris is rough around the edges. He’s got some time to put in and some dues to pay – but he’ll be a staple in the league for years to come. I don’t know what Dallas was thinking when they gave Harris up for Kidd. I really don’t.
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