The Brooklyn Nets faced a challenging preseason game against the Philadelphia 76ers with their three main big men unavailable due to injuries. Young center Noah Clowney was given a start, but he struggled against Andre Drummond, leading to a 117-95 loss. Coach Jordi Fernandez expressed disappointment in the team’s effort, emphasizing the importance of playing hard as a unit rather than individually. With Nic Claxton and Day’Ron Sharpe out, Ben Simmons had started the first two games, but Sharpe was given a night off as he continues to recover from surgery.
Clowney had a decent performance with 11 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks, but he faced challenges defending against Philadelphia’s offense. Despite the tough matchup, Clowney acknowledged the need to learn and grow from every game at this level of competition. He emphasized the importance of discipline, making the right calls, communicating effectively with his teammates, and improving his overall performance. The focus was not solely on the physical matchup with larger opponents but on improving as a player and contributing to the team’s success.
Point guard Killian Hayes has been sidelined for all three preseason games due to a sore hip. Coach Fernandez expressed optimism about Hayes’s recovery and rehabilitation process but emphasized the team’s priority of prioritizing the player’s health over rushing him back into action. They will assess his condition and progress once they return and make decisions accordingly. The team is making sure to support Hayes in his recovery and ensure that he returns to full health before returning to the court.
The Nets are still evaluating their options to fill holes in the roster, particularly at the backup center and backup point guard positions. Fernandez mentioned that the decision on how to utilize their open two-way contract would be a collaborative effort between himself, general manager Sean Marks, and the rest of the team’s management. They are considering the players currently on the roster and will make decisions based on their performance in preseason games and overall fit within the team. The focus remains on finding the best available options to strengthen the team for the upcoming season.
Fernandez emphasized the importance of teamwork and playing collectively rather than individually. He stressed the need for all players, not just Clowney, to show effort and commitment on the court. The team is facing challenges with key players out due to injuries, but they are focused on learning and growing from each game. Fernandez commended the players who have stepped up in the absence of their injured teammates and expressed confidence in their ability to adapt and compete at a high level. The preseason serves as a valuable learning experience for the team as they prepare for the regular season.
Overall, the Brooklyn Nets are navigating challenges with injuries, evaluating roster options, and focusing on teamwork and growth during the preseason. As they face adversity with key players sidelined, players like Noah Clowney are being given opportunities to step up and contribute. The coaching staff is emphasizing the importance of discipline, communication, and collective effort to overcome obstacles and prepare for a successful regular season. The team is prioritizing player health and making strategic decisions to strengthen the roster for the upcoming games.
