GAME PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: Brooklyn Nets vs San Antonio Spurs
The Nets want a big win to end a three-game losing streak. Brooklyn had a promising start to February, but the Nets have struggled to return to that good stretch. Coach Jacque Vaughn's team is on a three-game losing streak, and they want to end that with this game against the San Antonio Spurs.
It will be challenging for the Nets because they’ll play against Rookie of the Year contender Victor Wembanyama. The Nets will likely have new trade acquisitions in Dennis Schroder, Thadeus Young, and Keita Bates-Diop in the active roster, providing valuable depth.
The Spurs are a challenging matchup for the Nets
Wembanyama will be the primary story for this matchup, considering he’s one of the most exciting players in the league. He was selected 1st overall and has lived up to the hype, averaging 20.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game. He stands at an unreal 7’4”, which could create mismatches against almost anyone on the Nets.
Nic Claxton will have his hands full guarding Wemby. The Frenchman will be supported by players like Jeremy Sochan, Tre Jones, and Devin Vassell because they are seamless fits alongside Wemby due to their passing ability and off-ball excellence, especially Vassell’s shooting.
Brooklyn will need big performances from the star duo of Mikal Bridges and Cameron Thomas. The duo has been superb in the past month as they continue to keep scoring at a high level. Thankfully, they have good supporting pieces around them, with Schroder, Claxton, and Dorian Finney-Smith helping them.
A more energetic approach to the game will benefit the Nets since they are playing a young team that will look to keep running. Matching the Spurs is a great way to win this game, especially since the Nets thrive in transitional play.
Injury report
The Nets still have some injuries, as Cameron Johnson and Day’Ron Sharpe are not playing against San Antonio. Finney-Smith is back on the active lineup, and Lonnie Walker IV is probable for the game.
Charles Bassey is out for the season for San Antonio after suffering an ACL tear in December. Recent trade acquisition Marcus Morris Sr. will miss this game as the trade is still pending, and the veteran is also dealing with a foot injury.
This game at Barclays Center will be fun to watch, as the Nets will have their first crack at playing against Wembanyama. However, do not count out players like Bridges and Thomas look to bounce back after a rough three-game stretch.