As the Brooklyn Nets continue their journey through the NBA season, there’s a palpable sense of excitement and unpredictability surrounding the team. With a record of 5-6, the Nets have already surpassed expectations, showing a level of grit and determination that has become their hallmark.
Despite facing a depleted New Orleans Pelicans team, the Nets’ recent 107-105 victory highlighted their ability to fight until the final buzzer.
The Nets’ resilience has been a recurring theme this season. Even when facing formidable opponents like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics, the Nets have proven they can compete with the best
This fighting spirit is a testament to the coaching staff’s ability to adapt and the players’ willingness to step up, regardless of their challenges. The victory over the Pelicans, despite their missing key players like Zion Williamson and C.J. McCollum, was a prime example of the Nets’ tenacity.
In the win over New Orleans, every starter for the Nets scored in double digits, showcasing the team’s balanced offensive approach.
Cam Thomas, known for his scoring prowess, contributed 17 points on just 10 shots, while Cam Johnson also took 10 shots, highlighting the team’s ability to spread the scoring load. Nic Claxton and Dennis Schröder each took nine shots, emphasizing the team’s depth and versatility.
Off the bench, Noah Clowney and Jalen Wilson also made significant contributions, each scoring in double digits. Clowney, in particular, impressed with his willingness to take shots from beyond the arc, going 5 of 10 from three-point range.
This depth and ability to rely on multiple players for scoring have been crucial in keeping the Nets competitive, even when facing adversity.
The team’s success can be attributed to their versatile lineup, which has allowed them to mix and match players effectively. Ziaire Williams’ start in place of the injured Dorian Finney-Smith, and shifting bench roles is a testament to the depth and flexibility of the roster. This adaptability has been crucial in keeping the Nets competitive, even when facing adversity.
Cam Thomas has been a standout performer for the Nets, consistently delivering when it matters most. Beyond the box-score stats mentioned, Thomas dropped in the clutch three-point in the latter stages that sealed the win over the Pelicans.
His ability to contribute without dominating the ball is a promising sign for the team’s future. Under Jordi Fernandez we are seeing for maybe the first time in Thomas’ career, the type of coaching and execution that can help his overall game truly grow.
This distribution of scoring responsibilities not only makes the team harder to defend but also keeps opponents guessing from possession to possession. The coaching staff’s emphasis on ball movement and creating open looks has paid dividends, as evidenced by the team’s impressive shooting percentages.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Brooklyn Nets’ season, tune into the Locked On Nets podcast for this and much more.
