Nets defeat Pacers for their first win of the season, but Cam Thomas is injured

Nets Secure First Win, but at a Cost

INDIANAPOLIS — The Nets finally notched their first victory, but it came with the loss of their leading scorer.

Even the infrequent wins feel like a bittersweet moment in Brooklyn’s rebuilding phase.

Thanks to some solid adjustments aimed at improving their defense, which has been the worst in the league, the Nets pulled off a 112-103 comeback against Indiana in front of 16,103 attendees at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Wednesday night.

Cam Thomas had to exit early due to a left hamstring injury, leaving the team in a tough spot during the contest. But despite starting 1-7, they managed to rally in the fourth.

Going into the final quarter, they were slightly ahead at 83-80, and then they surged with a 21-8 run that ultimately clinched the victory.

The Nets’ rough start of 0-7 ties for the second worst in franchise history, but they’re no longer flirting with the dubious record of 0-18, which remains the worst in the NBA.

Thomas has struggled with this hamstring issue before, appearing in just 25 games last season due to similar setbacks. Yet, the improved defense and the impressive performance of the Pacers made the victory all the more significant.

Veteran Michael Porter Jr., who was shifted to small forward to add some size, came back from personal leave and excelled, scoring a game-high 32 points along with 11 rebounds.

Noah Clowney, who had filled in for Porter during a prior loss, continued to impress, contributing 17 points and showcasing the height and athleticism they needed.

Despite being the worst in defensive ratings, the presence of Clowney beside center Nic Claxton seemed to make a difference on the court.

Claxton also performed well, racking up 18 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists without committing any turnovers over the last three games.

He displayed versatility during the match, making plays and serving as a critical part of their offense, especially without a clear lead guard in the lineup. Meanwhile, Terence Mann stepped up admirably with 15 points and 6 assists.

It was an intense game, and the level of play reflected the stakes involved.

The Nets managed to take a brief 49-48 lead on a free throw by Mann late in the first half, but allowed Indiana to go on a nine-point run shortly afterward. They found themselves playing catch-up, down by eight points at one point, forcing them to dig deep.

Trailing 83-80 at the end of the third, the Nets opened the fourth with a strong 13-3 run.

Mann’s baseline fadeaway helped push the Nets ahead 93-86, and they maintained that lead effectively, holding off Indiana for the rest of the game. The Pacers were missing several key players, including Tyrese Haliburton, which likely impacted their performance.