Inside The Nets

Key takeaways from the Brooklyn Nets' electric win over the Utah Jazz

The Nets had arguably the team’s best performance against the visiting Jazz.

Peter Sunjic

© Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
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The Nets came into this game against the Utah Jazz with a chip on their shoulder. That was due to an unconvincing win in the previous game against the Rockets. Coach Jacque Vaughn motivated the players to lock in and start the game well.

Brooklyn had a hot start, outscoring Utah 43 to 28 in the first period. The returning Ben Simmons, who logged six assists and spearheaded the fast-paced offense, was a big reason behind that first quarter. The rest of the game showcased what the Nets can do when they’re at full strength, winning 147 to 114.

Ben Simmons is vital to Brooklyn’s future

Everyone was excited to have Ben back because of what he means to the team. The Aussie point guard is Coach Vaughn’s best playmaker, which was confirmed early into this game. When Ben had the ball, the Nets were outrunning the Jazz, scoring on transition threes and layups.

“I told them as soon as we checked in - they know what time it is. Certain guys know what it's like to play with me and where their shots are gonna come from. For us, it's easy,” Ben said after the game about how he can make his teammates better.

Bridges and Thomas are becoming a dangerous duo

Ben took most of the headlines, but it was also fantastic performances from Cameron Thomas with 25 points and Mikal Bridges with 33. Both players benefited from Simmons’ playmaking, but some isolation plays were run for the duo, which they sprinkled in amongst the fast breaks.

If Cam and Mikal continue to play this way, it will be difficult to guard the Nets. Coach Vaughn will have scoring threats in almost every position when the offense hums like it did against Utah.

Lonnie Walker IV is one of the league’s best sixth men

Lonnie Walker IV continued to shine as the sixth man on the Nets’ bench. Early in the season, Walker was one of the favorites to win the Sixth Man of the Year award, but a month-long injury spelled the end of his award campaign.

However, he still deserves respect for how he is playing because his 19-point game against Utah was superb. Coach Vaughn must keep trusting Lonnie, as he deserves the spotlight, especially with how well he has played this season.

The Nets move onto another challenging matchup with the Phoenix Suns visiting. It will be a tough task, but Brooklyn has the advantage of winning the previous game in mid-December.

The Brooklyn Nets get a massive 147-114 blowout win against the Utah Jazz

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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.

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