© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
GAME PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: Brooklyn Nets vs Orlando Magic
The Nets are fresh off a strong victory over the Washington Wizards, where they saw starting center Nic Claxton returning to the action. It was a massive 102-94 win for the Nets as they dominated the boards with 66 rebounds to the Wizards’ 42.
Now, they face the Orlando Magic in the In-Season Tournament while they’re still missing starting guards Ben Simmons and Cameron Thomas. The challenge ahead is more formidable than anticipated, given that the Brooklyn Nets are set to face a young and talented opponent.
The Magic have a talented squad
When talking about the Magic, attention is drawn to their standout wing players, Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero, both adept scorers capable of presenting challenges for teams with deficiencies in wing defense.
Thankfully for the Nets, they boast skilled defenders, particularly in the wing position. Mikal Bridges and Dorian Finney-Smith are anticipated to be the primary defenders against the Magic's talented wing duo. Additionally, Royce O’Neale coming off the bench can contribute to making it challenging for the opposing stars to score.
If they want to drive into the paint, they will be met with Claxton who is one of the best rim protectors in the league. In his return to the Brooklyn lineup, he swatted four shots, making an immediate impact. The Magic will have a tough time against the Nets as they’re ready to step up to the occasion for a second-straight win.
Injury report
For the Nets, Ben Simmons remains sidelined with a hip injury while Cam Thomas is out with an ankle sprain. This will likely mean Spencer Dinwiddie and Finney-Smith to be inserted into the starting lineup while Bridges and Cameron Johnson play as the shooting guard and small forward respectively.
On the Magic roster, they have four players sidelined. Gary Harris is out with a groin injury while Markelle Fultz is nursing a knee injury.
As a result, Cole Anthony and Jalen Suggs will assume the roles of the starting backcourt. Additionally, Kevon Harris is unavailable due to a knee injury, and Wendell Carter Jr. is sidelined with a hand injury, requiring surgery on his left hand.
The game will be played at Barclays Center on the unique In-Season Tournament court.
