The Brooklyn Nets will not be enjoying round. Whereas the Chicago Bulls spoiled the celebration by snapping the Nets’ 12-game win streak on Wednesday, it’s onerous to disclaim how properly the Nets have performed throughout their current run. It’s not a superb time to name them favorites to win the title fairly but. However it’s truthful to say that if you’re a Nets fan, then be excited. As for the remainder of the fanbases, bear in mind. The Nets seem to have discovered what works for them. They’ve develop into an excellent larger risk to the league within the course of.
The Bulls deserve their credit score for enjoying a superb sport. Chicago’s athleticism and tempo, pinned in opposition to Brooklyn’s flare, made it a enjoyable sport to look at. As for the outcomes, the Bulls took full benefit whereas the Nets had a nasty night time on the highway. It was routine for Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, who mixed for 69 of the Nets’ 112 factors. Exterior the dynamic duo and Seth Curry’s 22 factors, it was a quiet night for the Nets’ supporting solid. Solely 4 different black jerseys obtained factors on the board with 11, 7, 2, and 1. The loss isn’t any cause for the Nets to hit the panic button. It’s, nevertheless, a superb alternative to take a second to debate issues to bear in mind in regards to the Nets.
Is there a must measurement up?
Sure and no. It’s a tough fence to take a seat on, given how a lot Nic Claxton has improved this season. However having him as the one true heart for the Nets has develop into their downfall on a number of events. The Nets obtained blown out by the New Orleans Pelicans of their opening sport this season. And one of many primary elements for the loss was Claxton changing into Jonas Valanciunas’ punching bag. ESPN’s depth chart lists Ben Simmons because the second choice for the middle place, so the Nets don’t actually have a good selection previous the slender man in Claxton. The highest of the league is filled with giants reminiscent of Joel Embiid, Nikola Jokic, and Brook Lopez. All whose measurement alone turns into an issue for Brooklyn’s lone heart.
On the brilliant facet, the Nets’ potential to shoot considerably eliminates the necessity for a giant. Groups are pressured to go small and unfold out to protect Brooklyn’s outdoors capturing. Nonetheless, the Nets can be significantly better ready for any circumstance. They don’t must commerce for an elite heart like Jokic or Embiid. Simply any person who can present a bodily imposing presence within the paint. It may assist them significantly in the long term.
Ben Simmons wants to attain extra.
The Nets didn’t commerce for Ben Simmons so he can rating single digits. He’s contributing what he can to the Nets, however the odor from the rust is plain. Inactivity is likely one of the worst issues that might occur to an athlete since you by no means know should you can absolutely return to your outdated type. And should you do, how lengthy will it take to take action?
For what it’s price; it’s refreshing to see Simmons on the courtroom once more. His progress since his return is nice– however it may be higher. As a consequence of his phobia of capturing, Simmons’ major weapon is to assault the basket. However it has not contributed a lot both, as Simmons is averaging 7.9 factors per sport, which is about half of what he averaged as a 76er. Durant, Irving, and Simmons have been marketed because the Nets’ massive three. However the way in which Simmons is enjoying proper now makes them appear to be the massive two and a few change. Think about how good they might be when, and if, Simmons goes again to enjoying like an all-star. I imagine it could possibly occur, however it higher occur ahead of later.
The Nets’ greatest risk is themselves.
Can we belief the Nets to not shoot themselves within the foot? God forbid they lose gamers to accidents in the midst of an increase like this. The larger concern is controversy. Durant, Irving, and Simmons have starred in a number of dramas up to now. Now that they’re enjoying properly, there may be some respiratory room, however it’s onerous to keep away from trauma when the highway will get tough. Of their present type, the Nets can compete in opposition to the Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, and Philadelphia 76ers. Cliche to say, however their greatest downside is themselves.
One improper tweet from Irving, Simmons deciding to not play for psychological causes, or Durant’s measurement 18 sport footwear may screw it up for the Nets. Cross your fingers, say your prayers, and hope none of those issues reoccur.