BROOKLYN, NY -- The Nets have added depth now at the guard position, signing free agent point guard and University of Miami product Shane Larkin.
Larkin played for the Knicks just across New York City in 2015. Brooklyn has agreed to acquire the 5'11", 22 year-old guard on a two-year deal worth $3 million.
Brooklyn is now technically the fourth landing spot for Larkin since being drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2013 NBA Draft. The Hawks unloaded Larkin to Dallas on draft night, and Larkin played the 2013-2014 season for the Mavericks. Then, after the season, the Mavs traded Larkin to the Knickerbockers in a major deal that sent Tyson Chandler and Raymond Felton to Dallas. Now, Brooklyn could be a new home for Larkin, as this upcoming season will be the first off of a rookie contract for Shane.
The Knicks made Larkin after opting him out of the first year in a two-year segment of his contract with a team option in play. His salary on that contract was actually slightly greater than his new one with Brooklyn, but with endorsements and bonuses, Larkin will come out with a better opportunity and for a more successful team in the Nets.
Deron Williams is the starter in town, but may be traded away due to salary cap and possible issues with the team. Larkin will most likely add depth to the team from a reserve role at the point.
As a career stat line, Shane has posted averages of 4.9 points, 2.4 assists, and 1.8 rebounds per game. Larkin had a much better sophomore season, as 6.2 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.3 rebounds are significantly better for a role player. His first year in Dallas was also a toughie, as due to injury, the Cincinatti native only appeared in 48 games over the 2013-2014 regular season.
During the 2014 Mavs' playoff run, Larkin only made two appearances and played a total of five minutes on the court. He finished with two assists and a rebound.
Larkin has yet to fully blossom in the NBA, but maybe Brooklyn is the right place for him to do that.