Ben Chesser Focuses on Shooting Improvement for Second NBA Season

Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Chesser has made significant improvements to his shooting and physical conditioning over the summer, aiming to make a substantial impact in his second NBA season. His personal coach, Oded Brandwein, highlighted shooting as a primary focus during their summer training sessions, stating that "if Ben's career was an NBA2K career, and we had the option to do one thing to significantly improve him, we would enter the player settings and upgrade his shooting. From there, everything else will connect."

Chesser, who averaged 7.5 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists as a rookie in 2023-24, struggled with his three-point shooting, converting only 21.1% of his attempts. However, he shot an impressive 83.0% from the free-throw line. Brandwein noted that Chesser gained significant muscle mass and appears much stronger, attributing this to his first full NBA offseason since his rookie year, having previously played a long season in Germany.

Brandwein emphasized that Chesser's improved shooting, characterized by a quicker and smoother release, will be the key differentiator this season. "We're not aiming for specific percentages from three, obviously, he needs to shoot much, much better," Brandwein said. "First of all, he needs to shoot much faster and with flow when he receives a pass. The release needs to be smoother and more natural." He believes that once Chesser sees the ball go through the net a few times, his confidence will soar, leading to a transformed player.

Chesser's agent, Nadav Mor, confirmed that the guard worked on various aspects of his game, including driving to the basket, right-hand finishing, shooting, pace control, and floaters. The Nets' primary focus for Chesser was shooting, finishing with both feet, and physicality. Mor added that Brooklyn considers Chesser their best on-ball defender, and while he needs to improve offensively and with team defense, the direction is positive. Chesser feels prepared and confident for his second year, facing competition for the backup point guard role against Nolan Traore.

Chesser is expected to compete for the backup point guard position alongside Nolan Traore, with the "shiny rookie" Michael Brown Jr. likely starting in the backcourt with Yegor Demin. Brandwein expressed strong confidence in Chesser's potential, stating, "Ben is a killer in the head, he has a very tough and strong mentality, and I am sure he will shoot much better this season. I am also sure he will have a very long and interesting NBA career."