Fratello’s Fantasy Pick: MarShon Brooks

In his NBA debut, rookie guard MarShon Brooks has earned significant playing time off the Nets’ bench and shown flashes of his shooting prowess, which was highlighted by a 52-point rampage against Notre Dame when he broke the Big East record last year.

During his collegiate career with the Providence Friars, Brooks proved he could put the ball in the hole on a consistent basis. He averaged 24.6 ppg and evolved into the top scorer in the Big East by his senior year. A solid defender, Brooks also led his team in rebounding.

The 6’5”, 200-pound shooting star was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the 25th pick in 2011, but landed in his birth state of New Jersey by way of a draft day trade to the Nets.

Brooks has gotten off to a solid start so far in his pro career. He’s averaging 13.9 ppg in 23.4 minutes and is second in scoring behind All-Star point guard Deron Williams. He can sink shots from behind the 3-point line, penetrate off the dribble and hit lots in between. Brooks also helps out on the boards and has been pulling down a few rebounds each night.

The freshman has a lot to learn, but Brooks is destined for a bright future in this league as a big-time scorer. With the team’s top gun starting center Brook Lopez sidelined with a stress fracture in his right foot, the Nets desperately need Brooks’ firepower. As long as he stays healthy, Brooks will continue to get minutes and challenge 4^th-year guard Anthony Morrow for the 2-spot in the Nets’ starting lineup. The Nets play four games this week beginning tonight at home game against the Atlanta Hawks at 7:30 PM EST on YES.