Inside The Nets

GAME PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: Brooklyn Nets vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

The NBA returns to Paris for the third time.

Peter Sunjic

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The Brooklyn Nets and the Cleveland Cavaliers are the two teams the NBA selected to play at the Paris Game. This is the third time the league has played in the French capital, and this matchup can be the most competitive game so far.

Brooklyn and Cleveland have already played against each other in their respective opener this season. That was one of the most nail-biting games of opening weekend, which makes this game an exciting one for the fans in France and those watching from home.

Cleveland is a handful to play against

The Cavaliers are among the best teams in the Eastern Conference, tied for the fourth seed with the Orlando Magic. The Cavs are also on a three-game winning streak ahead of this game against Brooklyn, who are coming off a loss to the lowly Trail Blazers.

Coach JB Bickerstaff's team has Donovan Mitchell, a 27 points per game scorer. The 6’1” guard was instrumental in their latest win against Brooklyn when he hit the game-winning three to sink the Nets to their first loss.

Brooklyn’s key to winning is to maximize their talent. Mikal Bridges scored 42 points against the Blazers, and he wants to continue on this positive trajectory after a lengthy slump in December.

Nic Claxton will be the key to the Nets’ defense because he has been superb when he switches to smaller players. Coach Jacque Vaughn must decide whether to keep running the drop scheme or switch on pick-and-rolls.

Injury Report

The Nets are still dealing with the Ben Simmons injury with a nerve impingement in his lower back. He is recovering well and will get re-evaluated soon. Day’Ron Sharpe is a new addition to the injury report because he suffered a knee strain against Portland. He won't be joining the team in France.

On the other hand, Cleveland is dealing with a handful of injuries like Evan Mobley, who is out after left knee surgery in mid-December. Ty Jerome is out with an ankle injury, and All-Star guard Darius Garland is out with a jaw injury.

This will be a fun matchup because if the two teams’ previous game against each other is any indication, this game in Paris will be worthy of being played in the City of Light.

Report names Mikal Bridges as one of the "least improved players" this season

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Peter Sunjic
PETER SUNJIC

Peter's journey with basketball commenced in the first grade, and it has since evolved into an integral part of his life. Standing on the brink of a potential professional playing career, Peter ultimately chose to pursue a degree in Political Science and Journalism in Zagreb, Croatia. Despite this academic pursuit, his deep-rooted love for the game of basketball endured, undiminished. Now, as a writer and editor, Peter finds an avenue to channel his unwavering passion for basketball-related news and analysis. Whether it's deciphering the latest happenings or delving into the lore of old-school basketball, he covers every corner of the NBA world.

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