© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
What we learned from the Nets' disappointing result against Memphis
After two consecutive wins, the Nets had momentum coming into this game against the Memphis Grizzlies. Unfortunately, they did not look like a confident team, as the Brooklyn Nets lost to an underhanded Grizzlies squad 106 to 102.
The game led to a disappointing result for the Nets because they could’ve cut the deficit in the Play-In Tournament race. Unfortunately, there are multiple takeaways from this game, and there are limited positives.
Brooklyn has trouble with playing with energy
Coach Kevin Ollie wants his team to be consistent in playing with energy. That was not the case against the Grizzlies because they looked a step slower than their opponents. It looked like they were lethargic as Memphis dominated the rebound battle, 50 to 33.
The Grizzlies scored 25 second-chance points, which shouldn’t happen, especially to a team instructed to play with energy like Brooklyn. Ollie was displeased with his players’ lack of effort, but he’s confident that the Nets will recover in the second leg of a back-to-back against the 76ers.
He also noted that Brooklyn is not the most talented NBA team, and being scrappy could be the difference-maker for their bid to compete in the Play-In Tournament.
Mikal’s struggles have returned
After a 38-point night against the Hawks, Mikal Bridges struggled against Memphis. It was unfortunate for him, as he couldn’t score at the same rate, only having 14 points on an abysmal 4-for-14 from the field.
Bridges took accountability for his performance after the game, considering he was out there for most of the 48 minutes.
“I was out there 39 minutes. Just a bad one from me. Take a lot of the blame for tonight. Just sucks but gotta get ready for tomorrow,” Mikal said after the crushing loss.
Brooklyn must hit more of their free-throws
The Nets shot 17-for-30 from the charity stripe, and hitting at least five could lead to the win. Mikal had a rough night with his free throws, as he shot 4-for-9. It’s good he took accountability for the loss because he can elevate his performance against the 76ers.
Dennis Schroder, Nic Claxton, and Day’Ron Sharpe all missed multiple free throws, so they should be hitting more shots from the charity stripe, which could lead to more wins in the next 21 fixtures.
