Full Breakdown
Brooklyn Nets Sign E.J. Liddell to Two-Way Contract
9/4/2025, 2:04:26 PM
E.J. Liddell Joins the Nets
The Brooklyn Nets have officially signed forward E.J. Liddell to a two-way contract for the 2025-26 NBA season. Liddell, 24, was originally drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans as the 41st overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft but has faced significant challenges in his early career, including a torn ACL that sidelined him for his entire rookie season. Since then, he has played limited minutes across two seasons, appearing in just 20 NBA games for the Pelicans and Chicago Bulls, where he averaged 1.3 points per game.
Liddell's most notable performance has come in the NBA G League, particularly during the 2024-25 season with the Windy City Bulls. There, he averaged 15.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, showcasing his potential as a scorer and playmaker. His shooting percentages from the field (47.2%) and three-point range (36.1%) indicate a promising offensive skill set that the Nets hope to leverage.
Roster Implications and Team Strategy
The addition of Liddell is part of the Nets' broader strategy to reshape their roster as they enter their 50th season in the league. General Manager Sean Marks and Head Coach Jordi Fernández are balancing a mix of veterans and young prospects, having recently acquired four first-round picks in the 2025 NBA Draft, including Russian point guard Egor Demin and French guard Nolan Traoré. Liddell's versatility as a forward adds depth to the frontcourt, which includes established players like Nic Claxton and Michael Porter Jr.
In conjunction with Liddell's signing, the Nets also finalized a two-year, $12 million deal with restricted free agent Day’Ron Sharpe. This move indicates the team's ongoing efforts to solidify their roster while navigating the complexities of player contracts and potential trades, particularly concerning unsigned restricted free agent Cam Thomas.
Criticism & Opposition
While Liddell's signing has been met with optimism regarding his potential contributions, some analysts express caution. Critics point to his limited NBA experience and the challenges he has faced in securing a consistent role on a team. Despite his impressive G League statistics, there are concerns about whether he can translate that success to the NBA level, especially given the Nets' competitive roster dynamics.
Official Statements & Responses
The Nets announced the signing of Liddell and the re-signing of Sharpe in a brief statement, emphasizing their commitment to building a balanced team. The organization noted that Liddell's two-way contract allows him to split time between the NBA and G League, providing him with opportunities to develop further.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I've always said God has gifted him with the ability to score the ball,” — Chris Holtmann, Head Coach, Ohio State
- “Liddell’s versatility as a forward gives Fernández another option in a crowded rotation.” — Michael Scotto, NBA Insider
What's Next
As the Nets prepare for training camp, which begins with Media Day on September 23, they will need to finalize their roster, which currently exceeds the allowable number of players. The team faces decisions regarding cuts, particularly among players with non-guaranteed contracts, as they look to optimize their lineup for the upcoming season.
