Yuta Watanabe was a bright spot on a talented and ever-changing Brooklyn Nets team during the 2022-2023 season. He only averaged 5.6 points per game off the bench, but he struck the three-ball with accuracy like few others. Watanabe was a vital piece to the Nets’ regular season run.
Yuta Watanabe Brooklyn Nets Season Review
Brief History
Yuta Watanabe started his NBA career playing for the Brooklyn Nets summer league team in 2018. He then earned a two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies for the following season. After he spent two seasons playing for the Memphis Hustle, the Grizzlies’ G-League affiliate, he earned a similar role with the Toronto Raptors. He remained there for two seasons before signing with the Brooklyn Nets last year. The Nets made moves to build around their superstars before the season started, and Watanabe greatly contributed to the depth of the roster.
Strengths: Elite Three Point Shooting
Watanabe quickly caught fire in his stint with the Nets. He shot a blazing 44.4% for three-point field goals during the regular season, which has him tied for 4th best in the NBA. Even better, he shot 51% for corner threes. Early in the season, Watanabe would often get catch-and-shoot opportunities from the Nets’ slashers and playmakers. He also showed the ability to spot up and shoot off the dribble. Here is a compilation of the many three-pointers he made this season. One of the most impressive things about Watanabe’s shooting performance is the playing time he did it with. He played 16 minutes per game. Yet, he was still able to rank in the top five of NBA shooters. If Watanabe stays in Brooklyn, he will have plenty more opportunities to continue his outstanding shooting.
Improvements: Playing Time, Defense
As mentioned, Watanabe only played 16 minutes per game, which was understandable considering the array of talent the Nets had at the beginning of the season. With more wing players coming to Brooklyn mid-season, Watanabe’s role was diminished. It will continue to be difficult for him to get more minutes with the Net’s loaded roster. However, his elite shooting should prove to have him in the game more.
Unlike his other Brooklyn teammates, he was not ranked in the defensive plus-minus stat category for small forwards. He averaged 0.4 steals and 0.3 blocks per game. These stats do not speak loudly, but his hustle on the court does. One could see him move with urgency and contend shots on a regular basis. Watanabe played an important role in the Nets’ defensive schemes when he was on the court. However, he needs to further improve his play on defense.
Outlook: Re-sign Watanabe
As 2023 free agency looms, many teams will look to benefit from Yuta Watanabe’s services. He is a player that makes a winning impact. Despite playing limited minutes, he ranked 4th on the Nets roster of forwards in player impact estimate. It is of utmost importance that the Brooklyn Nets re-sign him. While the Nets roster has no shortage of shooting, Watanabe’s accuracy coupled with his hustle add depth to a Nets team looking to reach greater heights.
