Nets Secure First Home Win Against Hornets

Jordi Fernandez noted he hadn’t seen such a number of fast break points in a while. The Nets claimed their first home victory of the season by transforming their defense into 22 fast-break points. Alongside that, they recorded a season-high of 33 assists while committing 11 turnovers. In contrast, the Hornets struggled with 18 turnovers and only managed to score 27 points.

The impressive stats in the 116-103 win at Barclays Center were largely due to rookie Drake Powell’s hard work. After grabbing a loose ball in the second quarter, he sprinted for a fast break and set up a dunk by Michael Porter Jr., narrowing the gap to just three points.

Later in the third, Powell made a key defensive play, intercepting a dribble from Collin Sexton, leading to a steal and a dunk that gave the Nets an 83-79 lead. He finished the game with 10 points, four assists, and three steals, all while just turning the ball over once. His defensive contributions are becoming increasingly clear to the team.

Fernandez commented, “Powell’s stats, especially four assists to one turnover, are significant. He has embraced his role as a high-level defender.” Powell’s ability to apply pressure and stay in front of his opponent, along with making key deflections, stood out during the game.

In the second half, the Nets held the Hornets to 44 points, restricting them to a shooting percentage of just 35%. While Conn Knuppel was a concern, hitting 4-of-9 from three-point range, he struggled later, scoring only five points in the second half after tallying 12 in the first.

Powell and Knuppel have faced each other in college; Powell with the Tar Heels, and Knuppel from Duke. Powell acknowledged the challenge Knuppel presents, especially given his experience with talented players like LaMelo Ball.

Fernandez praised the team’s ball pressure, noting that, while they struggled initially, they improved significantly in the second half. “Those two guys did a great job with it,” he remarked, and it seemed the team’s defensive focus helped them regain control.

This rebuilding year is crucial for the Nets, and Powell’s athleticism and defense will play a vital role as they work towards developing new talent. Offensively, as the No. 22 pick, he’s also expected to become more active. On Monday, Powell made two out of five three-point attempts, which is an improvement over his season average. Before the game, he and Fernandez discussed the importance of being more assertive.

Fernandez encouraged Powell’s aggressiveness, stating, “He hit five threes today and I want him to keep that pace.” With a spot opened due to Terrence Mann’s rib injury, Powell capitalized with 24 minutes of play, outscoring Tyrese Martin, who filled in for Mann. It’s essential for Powell to maintain this momentum as he solidifies his position in the team’s rotation.