Nets Players Sit Out as Team Faces Injury Challenges
On Wednesday, Noah Clowney of Brooklyn was seen in street clothes alongside teammates Nick Claxton and Michael Porter Jr.
This raises the question: are the Nets, perhaps, engaging in a bit of a race to the bottom, similar to some other teams?
As for the game against Indiana, Porter was already confirmed out, while Claxton went from questionable to officially unavailable due to soreness in his right hip.
Claxton had a fantastic previous game against Chicago, scoring a career-high 28 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. But then, well, things took a turn. Clowney was listed with a probable left ankle sprain, but it was later announced that he had made an adjustment during warmups and would not play after all.
Coach Jordi Fernandes mentioned, “Perhaps it’s just a result of Claxton really pushing hard. He played over 30 minutes and did great. It’s crucial we keep him healthy. A little break might be what he needs to come back strong.”
Porter is missing his second consecutive game, having sat out four of the last seven due to tendonitis in his right knee.
It’s interesting to note that the Nets don’t seem to share the lack of scruples displayed by some of their rivals. Once again, they faced a Pacers team running a skeleton roster, missing key players like Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, and Obi Toppin.
In a positive note, rookie Nolan Traore made history as he became the first Nets rookie since Terrence Williams in 2010 to score at least 20 points and dish out eight assists in a game.
Building chemistry with fellow rookie Egor Demin, they recorded five assists each for the first time during this game. It was also their sixth start together. Demin commented, “It was really cool. Nolan’s speed opens things up for everyone, not just me. His knack for penetrating the defense and distributing the ball is incredible. It really helps us play faster. I think that’s something to look out for.”
Dayron Sharpe also contributed nicely Tuesday, tying his season high with 19 points. Rookie Ben Saraf matched his career best with 12 points.
In another highlight, former Nets player Buck Williams was named a finalist for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame’s 2026 class. Williams, recognized as the best rebounder in the franchise’s history, will be evaluated alongside the other finalists by an honors committee with new class announcements on April 4th.
Additionally, Brooklyn celebrated Lunar New Year with halftime performances, including one by Will Liu. Coach Fernandez expressed enthusiasm for embracing this cultural celebration, stating, “The Year of the Horse brings great energy not just to the arena, but to all our fans. We’re thrilled to celebrate this part of our culture.”
