Nets Updates Ahead of Game Against Former Team

Michael Porter Jr. missed the last two games due to illness but is expected to on Sunday face his old team, the Nuggets.

Cam Thomas is good to go, but starting center Nick Claxton is still sidelined for personal reasons. Claxton has made a significant impact, ranking fourth among centers with 131 assists this season, averaging a personal best of 4.2 assists per game. His absence will certainly be felt.

Dayron Sharpe is stepping in for Claxton again as a starter. He had a solid performance in his first start of the season against Washington, putting up 14 points, nine rebounds, two steals, and two blocks in 30 minutes. It was impressive to see him maintain his intensity, even while playing longer than usual.

Coach Jordi Fernandez noted, “Dayron’s commitment to the game is clear. When he plays extended minutes, it’s a challenge for his body. But it’s a valuable opportunity. We just have to monitor how he adjusts.” He added that while Sharpe’s rebounding was commendable, he could still improve his efficiency. But overall, Fernandez couldn’t help but feel proud of his determination and readiness.

Sharpe’s shooting has been noteworthy this season, with a career-high shooting percentage of 60.1% along with a 64.4% true shooting rate.

As for rookie Nolan Traore, he also put on a show against the Wizards, scoring 12 points and adding to his contributions with five assists, two blocks, and a steal. After receiving some feedback from Fernandez for a rushed shot in a previous game against Houston, he shifted his approach, focusing more on attacking the basket.

That game featured a standout highlight, where Traore scored impressively past Wizards center Alex Sarr. “I just want him to make the right shot, whether it’s a three-pointer or not. If he’s open, he should take it,” Fernandez commented, expressing confidence in Traore’s shooting abilities.

In terms of injuries affecting the game, Nikola Jokic will not be playing, which could significantly influence the MVP race. The Nuggets star is sidelined with a bone bruise in his left knee. Brooklyn will also miss Cam Johnson, who has his own knee issue, along with Jonas Valanciunas. Johnson was part of that offseason trade for Porter, along with a future first-round pick from Denver.

There are additional question marks for Denver, with both Christian Braun and Aaron Gordon dealing with injuries, while Jamal Murray is anticipated to play despite his ankle sprain.