Allen, Levert practice X’s and O’s of leadership

LAS VEGAS — Jarrett Allen — still just 20 — and Caris Levert, 23, are still just kids in NBA terms. But the Nets are expecting those kids to grow into leaders, and they’re getting their first dose of that in summer league.

“The challenge for both of those guys is to continue to grow leadership-wise, to have a voice. That’s the great challenge with this group right here, is [with] new guys put together, can you still put your stamp and voice on the group?” said assistant coach Jacque Vaughn, pointing to Allen’s maturation.

“It’s been great to see whether it’s being the first guy in the trainer’s room, whether it’s being the last guy out getting treatment, the professionalism that came with having a year under his belt, whether it’s pulling a guy aside and saying, ‘This is the correct spacing offensively.’ We’ve seen all of that these few days.”

LeVert agreed that was one of his goals this summer.

“Establish leadership within the younger guys, help with implementing the offense, talking out things defensively and then just working on some skills that I’ve been working on with [Vaughn],” said LeVert, adding that the naturally quiet Allen seems more confident and vocal.

“Quiet is an understatement. He was damn near mute. … For sure [he’s] more vocal, talking guys through possessions, talking to me after possessions. We’re trying to get our chemistry down. We found good chemistry halfway through the season. We’re just trying to keep that up.”

For his part, Allen said it’s not just coincidental, but purposeful.

“I’m trying to be able to be like a leader and try to teach the firstyear people how to be able to be a pro,’’ he said. “I’m trying to be able to come out of my comfort zone, and this is the perfect place to practice to be a leader. I’m just trying to get a little more leadership and come out my shell a little bit more.

“You hear it all the time. You can’t become better if you stay the same, so it’s just one of those tiny things I’m just trying to improve on.’’

Juan Pablo Vaulet practiced some Thursday, but his status for Friday’s opener versus Orlando is unclear. Vaughn was noncommittal about Rodions Kurucs.