Inside The Nets

GAME PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: Brooklyn Nets vs. Philadelphia 76ers

The Nets are looking to bounce back by visiting the 76ers.

Peter Sunjic

© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
In this story:

The Brooklyn Nets have been playing well in the past few weeks but got a reality check in the previous game against the Phoenix Suns. Brooklyn got blown out 120-136, which is a motivating factor ahead of this game against the Philadelphia 76ers.

With Ben Simmons potentially returning from a knee contusion, this could be an opportunity to prove a point for the Nets. However, they will have a tough challenge because the 76ers have a red-hot Tyrese Maxey, who is coming off a 51-point performance.

The Nets can win this game

The biggest news surrounding the 76ers is Joel Embiid's injury. That will promptly take him out for at least the next few weeks, which is a big blow for Philly. Coach Nick Nurse's squad has been superb all season, but losing the reigning MVP does hurt the team in the long run.

Thankfully for 76ers fans, they still have first-time All-Star Tyrese Maxey. The former Kentucky Wildcat is one of the best backcourt players in the Eastern Conference, averaging 26.3 points and 6.4 assists per game. He is coming off a 51-point game against the Utah Jazz, so he’s expected to have a hot hand.

Brooklyn has a path to winning this game, especially with how Cameron Thomas and Mikal Bridges have played in recent games. The Sixers will find it hard to defend both players since they can create their shots at will.

Nic Claxton will also be a vital part of the Nets’ game plan for this matchup, considering that Embiid is out. Paul Reed is a decent backup plan for Joel, but Nic can overpower him with strength and height.

Injury report

Dorian Finney-Smith and Day’Ron Sharpe won’t play in this game with the same injuries from past games. Ben Simmons is probable, so he will likely suit up against his old team. Lastly, Dennis Smith Jr. is questionable for Saturday’s game due to right foot soreness. The injuries might limit Coach Jacque Vaughn's options, but the Sixers have a more significant injury report.

An MRI of Joel Embiid’s left knee revealed a torn lateral meniscus, which will take him out for a long time. Joining him are De’Anthony Melton, Kenneth Lofton Jr., and Robert Covington, who will all be out. Lastly, Marcus Morris Sr. and Nicolas Batum are both questionable with their injuries. 

Durant not dwelling on "What Ifs" of his Nets run with Irving, Harden

Published
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.

Home/Gameday