It has been just over a week since the Brooklyn Nets have acquired third-year big man Jahlil Okafor from the Philadelphia 76ers.

However, the 22-year-old has only made one appearance in the six games since he has been acquired. The reason for this plan of action from the Nets falls within their desire to have him get into better physical condition, according to Brian Lewis of the New York Post.

“I talked to Jahlil, had a great conversation with him. The plan going forward is a couple things. We need to help him get in better condition, that’s first off,” Atkinson said. “We need to integrate him more into the system. It’s going to take some time. I’m not going to give you a date but it’s a strategic plan, just like we’ve done with all our guys, integrating guys into the team. It’s going to take some time.”

The time spent on getting into better physical condition will allow for Okafor to gather a stronger understanding of the Nets' offensive game plan. When he is deemed ready to play, he will be prepared to step in and be a huge offensive contributor.

Okafor has an opportunity in front of him to show that he can be a reliable asset and possible huge piece to the puzzle moving forward. This is something that he didn't have a chance to do with the 76ers over the last year.

What should also be taken into consideration is that he in the final year of his deal and is set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer. This makes his time in Brooklyn critical in determining his NBA future beyond this season.