Nets: We’re not in tanking mode

With the Nets finally having their own draft pick next June for the first time since 2013, many fans are clamoring for them to tank. But general manager Sean Marks said they’re more focused on making the postseason than tanking the regular season.

“[We must] continue to compete. That’s really important for us; it’s important for our current players they want to go out there and compete,” said Marks. “This is not a year we’re just going to sit there because we control our own pick and say ‘all right, let’s just hope that pick is as good as it possibly can be.’ It’s important for the fans to see the trajectory we’re on.”

The Nets are hoping to keep that trajectory headed up, after an eightgame improvement last season that was the second-biggest in the Eastern Conference.

Through Marks’ machinations, the Nets have two first-round picks next year and $50 million-$70 million in cap space. And during a call with season-ticket holders, he said it’s vital to continue their upward climb if they want to be able to successfully attract top free agents.

“Absolutely. All pro teams are cognizant of ‘You never want to have a losing culture here.’ Sometimes you can’t change it, but for us it’s about taking the right steps, continuing to grind,” Marks said.

That hope doesn’t just start with modest improvement, but dreams of making the playoffs. Though Marks wouldn’t be lured into that prediction, he loved that players such as D’Angelo Russell, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and even summer signee Ed Davis are aiming that high.

“It’s great coming from your players,” said Marks, adding, “When our players have done several interviews — including the new guys — and said I don’t see a reason why we can’t make a push for the playoffs, isn’t that the objective here? We’re not sitting here saying we plan to win 20 games.”

Marks touched on a host of topics in a wide-ranging Q & A:

Players and agents have noted the development of Spencer Dinwiddie, Joe Harris and others. Dinwiddie had the size and athleticism to succeed, but buy-in was key. Harris, who takes the subway to games, “probably could’ve gone elsewhere for more money,” but opted to stay with the Nets for two years and $16 million.

On the players hitting the gym the hardest, Marks said DeMarre Carroll began the day after the season ended and Davis started as soon as he signed. He also praised Jarrett Allen, Caris LeVert and Russell.