Tyler

Bilodeau

Bilodeau has yet to appear in a game due to his sprained right shoulder, and the Nets have not provided a return timeline. His continued absence doesn’t affect fantasy basketball, as the rookie isn’t guaranteed a spot in the rotation once healthy.

Bilodeau’s continued absence will not affect fantasy basketball, as he is unlikely to receive consistent minutes in the rotation even when healthy.

The rookie won’t be available for Brooklyn’s season opener, so his NBA debut will have to wait at least one more game. He’s on a two-way contract, so he likely won’t see the floor much when he’s healthy.

During his junior and senior seasons at UCLA, Bilodeau averaged 1.6 three-pointers per game while making 43.8 percent of his attempts. So, it’s not like his ability to hit perimeter shots is a major surprise. However, the rookie forward was 6-of-9 in Monday’s 100-79 defeat, joining four other Nets in double figures. Bilodeau is on a two-way contract and the Nets acquired Julius Randle, so achieving fantasy relevance as a rookie will be challenging. But his effort on Monday should not be overlooked, especially considering how much the Nets relied on two-way players late last season.

The Nets’ second-round pick made his summer league debut and was able to contribute in multiple areas. Bilodeau is an older rookie, so he should be ready to make an impact from day one if needed, though that doesn’t mean he’s going to play a significant role as a rookie. He’ll continue to get plenty of minutes as summer league continues.

After two seasons at Oregon State, the 6-foot-8 Bilodeau played his final two seasons of college basketball at UCLA. He was most productive as a senior, averaging 17.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 2.1 three-pointers in 30.2 minutes per game. Bilodeau, who shot 51.8 percent from the field, 46.4 percent from three and 87.3 percent from the foul line, has range out beyond the three-point line and can be a productive pick-and-pop option in the frontcourt. With Brooklyn moving on from Nic Claxton, adding another frontcourt option to the roster via the draft makes sense. While undersized as a power forward, Bilodeau’s ability to knock down shots should get him opportunities for the rebuilding franchise.