JONNY Flynn, a 23-year-old former top-10 pick in the NBA draft, is set to replace Melbourne Tigers import Kevin Braswell who was released by the club this morning.

Braswell, 33, has played with niggling injuries so far this season and Tigers coach Chris Anstey wanted a fully-fit squad to seize on the club's season opening win on Sunday.



He visited Braswell on Monday morning and told him the news, face to face.



"Kev has been an absoute pro this whole time but he has been playing hurt and we need someone with a few different capabilities to really help us build on what we are doing here," Anstey said.



"There's no hard feelings and we're sure Kev will get another job because he has a lot to offer the league."



Anstey said new boy Flynn represented one of the highest-quality players the NBL had seen in some time.



A number six pick in the 2009 NBA draft, the point-guard has been through NBA clubs Minnesota, Houston, Portland and, most recently, Detroit.



After being released by the Pistons recently, FLynn's management contacted Anstey to sound out opportunities at the Tigers.



"He's in his prime and wanted to reinvigorate his career and we're really excited about what he's going to bring," Anstey said.



Flynn is expected to train with his new teammates as soon as Tuesday and could potentially suit up for the Tigers against Adelaide at Hisense Arena on Friday night.