Inside The Nets

GAME PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: Brooklyn Nets vs. Detroit Pistons

The Nets play their first game after Christmas against a familiar opponent.

Marin Gabric

© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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Before Christmas, the Nets broke their losing streak by defeating the Detroit Pistons 126-115. Now, they are set to play each other again, but this time, it will be in the Motor City's Little Caesars Arena.

This is a dangerous game for the Nets as the Pistons are familiar with them already and are motivated to end their historic losing streak. They are tied with the 2013/14 Philadelphia 76ers for the longest single-season losing streak ever at 26 games, so winning this game is an important goal for Monty Williams and his team.

What the Nets need to remember for this game

The triumph against the Pistons showcased the kind of playstyle Brooklyn should embrace in the future. They kicked off the game impressively, securing a 32-21 lead by the end of the first quarter, and skillfully held onto that advantage for the remainder of the match.

Mikal Bridges had his bounce-back performance in that game as he scored 19 first-half points, eventually ending with 29. The rest of coach Jacque Vaughn's team had a good game as there were seven players in double-figures. They need to keep playing like this to get more wins moving forward.

The Nets need to keep an eye on Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey in the Pistons' backcourt, especially Cunningham, who's their top player and can be a tough matchup when he gets hot. Dennis Smith Jr. and Mikal have to step up their defense to secure a win. 

Also, Isaiah Stewart's hustle makes him a key player, so the Nets have to focus on solid rebounding to limit his scoring opportunities on putbacks.

Injury Report

Ahead of this game, Brooklyn only has two injured players, Ben Simmons with his lower back nerve impingement and Lonnie Walker IV with his left hamstring strain. The latter is nearing his return while Ben is on track for his recovery.

In the Pistons' lineup, Killian Hayes, Jalen Duren, and Stewart are likely to play in the upcoming game, each dealing with different ailments. Unfortunately, Monte Morris is still sidelined with a long-term quad strain.

Nets fans can anticipate an exciting matchup as they hope for a strong performance from their team. The game is expected to be challenging, given the Pistons' desperation for a win, adding to the overall entertainment value.

Cam Johnson encourages Mikal Bridges amidst shooting slump

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Marin Gabric
MARIN GABRIC

Marin's love for writing developed in high school but was furthered in college when he took a number of creative writing courses. Doing sports writing felt like an extremely natural continuation, as it furthered his passions in both writing and basketball.  Marin loves the feeling of looking at stats after a game and analyzing what each team could've done better or what they excel in compared to the rest of the league. And the ability to do so for his favorite team, the Brooklyn Nets, is quite special in itself. 

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