The Nets have turned things around significantly. After starting the season with just one win in their first twelve games—and a staggering 3-16 record—things began to shift. They’ve now won three out of their last four games, which is quite a change from where they were.
The turnaround isn’t really a mystery. Michael Porter Jr. has been a powerhouse when he’s on the court, and their defense, which was quite poor at first, has shown noticeable improvement. Plus, some of their newer players are stepping up and making contributions.
While they prepare for their upcoming game in Dallas on Friday, the Nets stand at 4-5 since November 16. They aren’t quite a dominant force yet, but there are glimmers of hope.
“You can feel us improving as a unit,” Porter remarked following a recent win against New Orleans at Barclays Center. He acknowledged that the team is young and knew it would take time to gel. After drafting five first-round players, they are starting to see progress. “We feel like we’re a completely different team now than we were in those early games.”
When the season started, the Nets were allowing more than 120 points per game and looked like they might be heading for a record-setting poor season. However, Coach Jordi Fernandez has emphasized patience, guiding this developing team to a surprising 26 wins last year.
Of course, it helps to have matchups against struggling teams like New Orleans, which has only been able to secure three wins this season. “Winning in the NBA is never easy,” Fernandez noted. “This team has fought hard in many close games.”
The rookies are beginning to shine too. In the game against New Orleans, Egor Demin recorded seven assists, while Danny Wolf contributed seven points and Ben Saraf matched that with his scoring and added four assists.
Wolf has been averaging nearly 13 points, 5.6 rebounds, and about 2.6 assists over his last five games, which has caught Porter’s attention. “Danny has really shown he’s ready for the NBA,” Porter said. “He’s prepared to contribute and be trusted right now.”
Despite positive strides, there are still areas needing attention. Both Demin and Wolf had three turnovers each, and these things take time to iron out.
But it seems like the Nets are in a better place than teams like New Orleans, which hasn’t seen a playoff series win in almost ten years since picking Zion Williamson first overall in 2019.
Williamson’s repeated injuries have left the Pelicans in a tough spot, and they even traded away their first-round pick for another player. Meanwhile, the Nets are gearing up for a tough series of games against teams like the Mavericks, the struggling Bucks, and others.
As Fernandez looks ahead, he expresses satisfaction with the progress being made, especially on defense. Yet, with tough games on the horizon, it’ll be crucial for this young team to continue evolving.
