GAME PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: Brooklyn Nets vs. Portland Trail Blazers

The Nets look to end their losing streak against the struggling Blazers.

© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The Brooklyn Nets are on a three-game losing streak that started with losing to the Portland Trail Blazers at Barclays Center. The Nets get another crack ten days later as they visit the Pacific Northwest to take on the Blazers.

Portland got the upset 127-134 victory in the latest matchup, but now, the team is seeking redemption. The Nets are coming off a crushing overtime loss to the Miami Heat in the most recent game, which means the team will be extra motivated to get a win.

The Blazers have multiple threats

In the most recent game on January 7, Anfernee Simons was the standout performer for the Blazers. He scored 38 points, knocking down massive shots and creating opportunities for his teammates to sink the Nets. Simons’ potent offense will be a crucial part of Coach Jacque Vaughn’s scouting report if he’s healthy because of what he did in their last matchup.

Jerami Grant will be another player to look out for, given he can score plenty of points. The former Syracuse Orange will be a tough matchup for the Nets, but thankfully, the team has an abundance of wings who can defend Grant. It will be a challenging matchup, but the Nets will have to play with solid energy to get this win.

Mikal Bridges and Cameron Thomas have to continue their scoring barrage over the last few games. The former Villanova Wildcat is the go-to guy in the starting lineup, and when he sits, Cam will take over as the primary scorer.

The rest of the team must step up, especially with their three-point shooting. Brooklyn has been less effective without their long-range shots falling, so hitting more open shots would be welcome in their goal to win this game.

Injury Report

Brooklyn is still dealing with two injuries: Ben Simmons’ lower back nerve issue and Day’Ron Sharpe’s hyperextended knee. Important players are still recovering, but signs point to both returning relatively soon, just not for this game against Portland.

On the other side, Rip City is missing Shaedon Sharpe, Moses Brown, and Robert Williams III for this game. Anfernee Simons and Malcolm Brogdon are labeled questionable, while Deandre Ayton and Ibou Badji are both listed as probable.

This will be a fun game at Moda Center, with both teams looking to play entertaining playstyles. 

"I'm just doing my job" - Cameron Thomas on his ever-changing role in Brooklyn