Noah Clowney Struggles Early in Season
The initial five games of the season have been challenging for Noah Clowney, at least regarding his performance metrics.
Currently, the Nets’ forward is averaging just 5.2 points per game, with a shooting percentage that leaves much to be desired—only 25 percent. His efficiency shows a decline from last season, with him hitting 3-of-8 inside the arc and 7-of-28 beyond it.
Despite these numbers, head coach Jordi Fernandez remains optimistic about Clowney, a former first-round pick who displayed potential last year. “He had a fantastic summer. His physical condition looks impressive,” Fernandez remarked after practicing with the team in Brooklyn. “We’re hoping he can have a greater impact on the game. [Still], I’m pleased with his overall play.”
Fernandez referenced the recent loss to Atlanta, where Clowney managed to convert only 1-of-7 attempts. Yet, he expressed a positive outlook, saying, “I thought he did a lot of things well. The shots that didn’t go in still looked good.”
His advice to Clowney has been consistent: “Just keep shooting. Avoid overthinking it.”
Like many players, Clowney could also benefit from enhancing his defensive skills, especially given the Nets’ struggles in that area over their last five games. “I want him to step up defensively, and he’s acknowledged that. He performed better in the last outing,” Fernandez added.
However, the young Nets team is noticeably relying on the contributions of the 6-foot-10, 21-year-old forward. “We need Noah. He’s an enormous asset—his toughness, size, shooting, and rebounding are all crucial,” Fernandez noted. “We could use more verticality in our game, and he plays a significant role in that.”
In other news, Ziaire Williams, who recently sustained a fractured back and bruising in the loss to the Spurs, is optimistic about being cleared for Sunday’s game against the 76ers. Fernandez mentioned after practice that he’s “pretty close” to returning.
“He’s progressing well,” the coach said. “We’ll need to monitor how he responds physically after this, but if all goes well, we’ll make a decision.”
Fernandez also highlighted that rookies Danny Wolf and Nolan Traore are working with Long Island’s G League team, noting it provides them with beneficial playing opportunities. “Development never stops. They’ll be able to get more meaningful experience there than here,” he explained. The Nets are gearing up for back-to-back games against Philadelphia and Minnesota this weekend.
