Brooklyn Nets rookie forward Drake Powell has been showing some signs that he could be ready for an increased role in the Nets' rotation, especially with his experimentation on the offensive end of the floor. Powell is still coming off the bench for Brooklyn, but even with him getting less than starter's minutes, the rookie's confidence grows each game as he continues to get reps.
"I'm just out there playing basketball, trying to be aggressive and just trusting myself, my teammates, my coaches," Powell said following Monday's 113-100 loss to the New York Knicks. Since coming back from his ankle injury on Nov. 7, Powell has played at least 14 minutes in the past nine games, including Monday's loss to the Knicks when he played 24 minutes in the contest.
"It's been great. My player development coach, Corey Vinson, he's been great," Powell said when asked about getting into a rhythm during his time on the floor. "We have multiple film meetings, and those are very important to me. I want to continue to buy into those because I think that'll help translate onto the floor."
Powell, 20, had arguably his best game of the season in Monday's home matchup against New York as he ended the contest with 15 points, four assists, and one steal. Following Monday's loss to the Knicks, Powell is averaging 6.9 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting 50.9% from the field and 38.1% from three-point land in 11 games played.
Due to the depth that the Nets have at the forward spots with Michael Porter Jr. and Noah Clowney, it could be awhile before Powell can break into the starting lineup, especially after guard Cam Thomas returns from his left hamstring strain. However, the fact that the former North Carolina Tar Heel is gaining confidence in his game has to encourage the Nets when it comes to how high Powell's potential ceiling is.
This article originally appeared on Nets Wire: Nets' Drake Powell discusses growing confidence in offensive game