The best Nets players of all time have shaped the franchise with skill, leadership, and unforgettable performances. From ABA icons to modern NBA picks, Brooklyn and New Jersey have seen some of the league’s most dynamic stars. These players didn’t just fill stat sheets – they changed the game for the Nets.
Some carried the team to historic playoff runs, while others set franchise records that still stand. Each left a unique mark on the organization’s identity. For example, Jason Kidd led the Nets to consecutive NBA Finals. Meanwhile, Julius Erving brought style and dominance during the team’s ABA era.
Over the decades, high-impact NBA picks like Kenyon Martin and Brook Lopez built long-term success. At the same time, stars like Vince Carter and Kevin Durant delivered highlight-reel moments and scoring bursts. Even short stints, like Dražen Petrović’s, created lasting legacies.
This list honors the players who defined the franchise’s highest moments. From relentless rebounders to elite scorers, each brought something special. As Brooklyn continues building its future, the past remains rich with talent and heart.
Let’s take a look at the players who truly represent the best in Nets history.
Kevin Durant: The Easy Money Sniper Made the Nets Contenders
Career Stats: 27.2 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.4 APG; 50.2 FG%, 39.0 3FG%, 88.2 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Champion (GSW, 2017, 2018), 2x NBA Finals MVP, 1x NBA MVP (2013-14), 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (2007-08), 15x NBA All-Star, 13 All-NBA selections, 4x NBA Scoring Title Winner (2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12, 2013-14)
Kevin Durant ranks 10th on the list of the 10 best Nets players of all time. He brought elite scoring and clutch performances. As one of the best NBA small forwards, Durant delivered at a historic level during his Brooklyn tenure.
Despite missing his first season due to injury, Durant quickly proved his value. In the 2021 playoffs, he nearly carried the Nets past the Bucks. His Game 5 performance: 49 points, 17 rebounds, 10 assists – was legendary. As one of the best NBA scoring champions, Durant averaged over 29 points per game as a Net.
He consistently shot over 50% from the field while defending multiple positions. Though his time in Brooklyn was short, his production was elite. Durant’s shot-making and efficiency rivaled any player in franchise history. However, the lack of deep playoff success keeps him from ranking higher.
Off-court distractions and injuries limited team chemistry. Still, Durant’s individual brilliance cannot be ignored. He remains one of the most skilled forwards to ever wear a Nets jersey. While his run was brief, the impact was massive.
Dražen Petrović: Precise Sharpshooter and One of the Early European Talents
Career Stats: 15.4 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 2.4 APG; 50.6 FG%, 43.7 3FG%, 84.1 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x All-NBA selection
Dražen Petrović ranks 9th on the list of the 10 best Nets players of all time. He transformed the team with fearless scoring. Arriving from Europe, Petrović quickly adjusted to the NBA’s pace and physicality.
By the 1991-92 season, he became the team’s best offensive weapon. He averaged 20.6 points per game with elite shooting efficiency. The following year, he raised his average to 22.3 points while shooting over 44% from three-point range. Petrović’s scoring, hustle, and leadership helped the Nets return to playoff contention.
He played with unmatched intensity and heart every night. Teammates respected his work ethic and competitive drive. Though undersized, he fearlessly attacked the rim and created his own shot. Fans embraced his passion and precision from the perimeter.
Sadly, his promising career ended in tragedy when he died in a 1993 car accident. Despite only three seasons with the Nets, his legacy remains strong. His jersey was retired in honor of his impact on and off the court.
While his time was short, Petrović’s influence was deep. He inspired a generation of European players. Because of his lasting legacy, Dražen Petrović rightfully claims his spot among the best Nets players of all time.
Kenyon Martin: K-Mart Was Explosive for the 00’s Nets
Career Stats: 12.3 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 1.9 APG; 48.3 FG%, 23.4 3FG%, 62.9 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA All-Star, 1x All-NBA selection
Kenyon Martin ranks 8th on the list of the 10 best Nets players of all time. He brought toughness and intensity daily. Selected first overall in the 2000 NBA Draft, Martin immediately made an impact with his defense and athleticism.
He played a key role during the Nets’ back-to-back NBA Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003. Martin provided strong interior defense and explosive finishes around the rim. In the 2003 playoffs, he averaged 18.9 points and 9.4 rebounds per game.
His chemistry with Jason Kidd helped elevate the team’s fast-break offense. Martin often finished plays with powerful dunks and strong put-backs. Though not a flashy scorer, he delivered when it mattered most.
He defended opposing stars, grabbed tough rebounds, and set the tone with physical play. Teammates and coaches praised his leadership and competitive edge. His emotional energy made him the heartbeat of the early 2000s Nets.
Martin’s numbers won’t overwhelm, but his presence was undeniable. He averaged 15.1 points and 7.6 rebounds during his four seasons in New Jersey. His contributions fueled the team’s most successful era.
Richard Jefferson: RJ Was a Versatile Two-Way Player
Career Stats: 12.6 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 2.0 APG; 46.4 FG%, 37.6 3FG%, 76.8 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion (Cleveland Cavaliers, 2016), 1x All-NBA selection
Richard Jefferson ranks 7th on the list of the 10 best Nets players of all time. He provided consistency, athleticism, and leadership. Drafted in 2001, Jefferson quickly became a key piece in the Nets’ Finals runs in 2002 and 2003.
He complemented Jason Kidd and Kenyon Martin with strong defense and efficient scoring. Jefferson thrived in transition and guarded the opponent’s best wing players. During his seven seasons with New Jersey, he averaged 17.4 points per game.
In the 2004-05 season, he posted a career-best 22.2 points per game before suffering a wrist injury. Still, he bounced back and remained productive. Jefferson finished top ten in multiple franchise categories, including games played and points scored.
His ability to slash, shoot, and defend made him a versatile forward. He accepted his role early in his career, then became a top scoring option. Jefferson also served as a steady veteran presence during roster changes.
He played 489 games for the Nets, consistently contributing on both ends of the floor. Though often underrated, his impact was substantial. Because of his longevity and two-way value, Richard Jefferson deserves his place among the best Nets players of all time.
Derrick Coleman: A Solid Player Who Stretched the Floor
Career Stats: 16.5 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 2.5 APG; FG%, 3FG%, FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (1990-91), 1x NBA All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections
Derrick Coleman ranks 6th on the list of the 10 best Nets players of all time. He delivered elite talent and production. Selected first overall in the 1990 NBA Draft, Coleman made an immediate impact with his scoring and rebounding.
In his rookie season, he averaged 18.4 points and 10.3 rebounds, winning NBA Rookie of the Year. He followed that with consistent double-double performances throughout his Nets tenure. Coleman peaked in the 1992-93 season, averaging 20.7 points and 11.2 rebounds per game.
He stretched the floor with his shooting and could dominate inside with strength and finesse. His versatility made him tough to defend. Despite occasional injuries and off-court issues, his raw talent was undeniable.
Coleman played five seasons in New Jersey, averaging 19.9 points and 10.6 rebounds. He ranks high in franchise history for rebounds and points. His skill set was ahead of its time, combining perimeter shooting with strong post play.
While some expected more from his career, his numbers with the Nets were elite. Coleman gave the franchise a legitimate star during the early ’90s. Because of his production and potential fulfilled in New Jersey, Derrick Coleman earns his spot among the best Nets players of all time.
Vince Carter: Half-Man, Half-Amazing Had Great Seasons as a Net
Career Stats: 16.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.1 APG; 43.5 FG%, 37.1 FG3%, 79.8 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Slam Dunk Contest Winner, 1x NBA Rookie of the Year, 8x NBA All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections
Vince Carter ranks 5th on the list of the 10 best Nets players of all time. He brought star power and reliability. Acquired in a 2004 trade, Carter immediately transformed the Nets with his scoring and highlight plays.
Known as one of the best NBA dunkers of all time, Carter electrified crowds with powerful finishes and graceful athleticism. He averaged over 20 points per game in all five full seasons with the Nets.
In the 2006-07 season, he posted 25.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. Carter often carried the offense, especially in clutch moments. He formed a strong trio alongside Jason Kidd and Richard Jefferson.
Carter wasn’t just a dunker – he hit big shots, created plays, and led by example. His offensive skill set included shooting, passing, and shot creation. He also played 80 or more games in multiple seasons, proving his durability.
While the team didn’t return to the Finals, Carter kept the Nets competitive in the East. He left the franchise ranking top five in points and field goals made.
Because of his consistency, star presence, and unforgettable dunks, Vince Carter secures his place among the best Nets players of all time.
Brook Lopez: One of the Tenured Nets Players
Career Stats: 15.9 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 1.5 APG; 49.7 FG%, 35.2 3FG%, 79.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA champion (Milwaukee Bucks, 2021), 1x NBA All-Star, 3 All-NBA selections
Brook Lopez ranks 4th on the list of the 10 best Nets players of all time. He brought consistency, scoring, and longevity. Drafted in 2008, Lopez quickly became the team’s most reliable offensive option during a challenging era.
As a skilled big man, he averaged 18.6 points and 7.1 rebounds over nine seasons with the Nets. In the 2011-12 season, he averaged a career-high 20.7 points per game. Lopez used post moves, soft touch, and later added a three-point shot to add to his NBA player props potential.
Despite multiple coaching changes and roster overhauls, Lopez remained productive and professional. He became the franchise’s all-time leading scorer in 2017, passing Buck Williams.
His shot-blocking improved steadily, and he provided interior presence on both ends. Though the Nets struggled during his tenure, Lopez never stopped contributing. He played through injuries and led by example with steady effort.
Teammates valued his calm demeanor and willingness to adapt. Coaches praised his footwork, shot selection, and work ethic. Few players remained as loyal and impactful during a rebuild.
Because of his scoring records, franchise loyalty, and all-around skill, Brook Lopez earns his spot among the best Nets players of all time. His legacy still resonates with Brooklyn fans today.
Buck Williams: A Solid Interior and Post Player
Career Stats: 12.8 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 1.3 APG; 54.9 FG%, 16.7 3FG%, 66.4 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (1981-82), 3x NBA All-Star, 6 All-NBA selections
Buck Williams ranks 3rd on the list of the 10 best Nets players of all time. He brought toughness, rebounding, and leadership. Drafted third overall in 1981, Williams won Rookie of the Year with 15.5 points and 12.3 rebounds per game.
He anchored the Nets during the 1980s and led them to five playoff appearances. Williams was a consistent double-double threat every night. His physical play and relentless motor set the tone on both ends of the court.
Defensively, he battled elite forwards and protected the paint with effort and strength. Offensively, he scored efficiently around the basket and from mid-range. Williams averaged 16.4 points and 11.9 rebounds over eight seasons with the Nets.
He remains the franchise’s all-time leader in total rebounds and is second in games played. Teammates respected his no-nonsense approach and professionalism. Coaches relied on his presence to steady the team through difficult stretches.
Though he wasn’t flashy, Williams delivered elite production and stability. He made three All-Star teams and one All-NBA Second Team as a Net. Because of his consistency, leadership, and elite rebounding, Buck Williams rightfully ranks among the best Nets players of all time.
Jason Kidd: J-Kidd Was Mr. Nets During the 00s
Career Stats: 12.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 8.7 APG; 40.0 FG%, 34.9 3FG%, 78.5 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion (Dallas Mavericks, 2011), 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (1994-95), 10x NBA All-Star, 16x All-NBA selections
Jason Kidd ranks 2nd on the list of the 10 best Nets players of all time. He redefined the franchise overnight. Acquired in 2001, Kidd immediately turned the struggling Nets into a championship contender with leadership and vision.
He led New Jersey to back-to-back NBA Finals in 2002 and 2003, commanding the offense with brilliance and poise. As one of the best NBA point guards, Kidd controlled the tempo, found open teammates, and made smart decisions.
He averaged 14.6 points, 9.1 assists, and 7.2 rebounds during his six-and-a-half seasons with the Nets. His triple-double threat energized every game. Kidd ranked among the NBA assists leaders throughout his Nets tenure.
Defensively, he disrupted passing lanes and guarded multiple positions. He ranks third on the NBA all-time steals leaders list, showcasing his elite instincts and quick hands. Kidd constantly pressured ball handlers and created fast-break opportunities off turnovers.
Offensively, he pushed the pace and elevated players like Kenyon Martin and Richard Jefferson. Though not a flashy scorer, Kidd hit clutch shots when it mattered most.
He made six All-Star teams as a Net and earned multiple All-NBA and All-Defensive selections. Because of his winning impact, elite playmaking, and defensive brilliance, Jason Kidd earns his place among the best Nets players of all time. His legacy remains iconic in team history.
Julius Erving: Dr. J is 1st on the Best Nets Players of All Time List
Career Stats: 24.2 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 4.2 APG; 50.6 FG%, 29.8 3FG%, 77.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x ABA Champion (New York Nets, 1974, 1976), 2x ABA MVP (1973-74, 1974-75), 2x ABA Playoffs MVP (1973-74, 1975-76), 1x NBA Champion (Philadelphia 76ers, 1983), 1x NBA MVP (1980-81), 5x ABA All-Star, 11x NBA All-Star, 7x All-ABA selections, 7x All-NBA selections
Julius Erving ranks 1st on the list of the 10 best Nets players of all time. He defined greatness and style. “Dr. J” Erving transformed the Nets during their ABA years with his athleticism, leadership, and scoring.
He joined the team in 1973 and instantly raised their profile. Erving led the Nets to two ABA championships in 1974 and 1976. During those seasons, he averaged over 27 points per game while dominating both ends of the court.
As one of the league’s biggest stars, Erving boosted attendance and media coverage. He won three ABA MVP awards with the Nets. Fans trusted the NBA odds more when Erving played, knowing he could take over any game.
His aerial game and flair changed how forwards played basketball. He attacked the rim, soared for rebounds, and defended multiple positions. Off the court, Erving served as a global ambassador for the sport.
Though he never played for the Nets in the NBA, his ABA dominance secures his place at the top. Erving’s winning legacy, individual excellence, and influence remain unmatched. Because of his championships, MVPs, and unforgettable impact, Julius Erving is the greatest Net of all time. His legacy remains a franchise standard.
For more information about the best NBA teams in the Eastern Conference, check out the best Bulls players or the best Pistons players of all time.