NBA Rumors: Nene 'Closing In' On Signing With New Jersey Nets, According To Report

Read More: Dwight Howard (C - ORL), Tyson Chandler (C - NYK), Brook Lopez (C - NJN), New Jersey Nets, Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets

The New Jersey Nets appear to be "closing in" on signing free-agent center Nene to a contract, according to Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News. The Nets lost out to the Knicks in the Tyson Chandler sweepstakes and have now zeroed in on signing the former Denver Nuggets' center, Bondy reports.

It remains unclear how much the Nets would offer Nene, but it would likely be at least as much as the four-year, $58 million contract the Knicks reportedly gave Chandler. Nene is arguably the top free-agent center on the market, as he's one of the league's most efficient and versatile centers, as well as a tough guy in the paint. The Nuggets are one of many other teams who have reportedly expressed interest in signing Nene to a long-term deal.

The move probably will not have much of an effect on the Nets' decision to pursue Dwight Howard, as either Nene or Brook Lopez could be used in a trade package for the Magic's star.

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