Inside The Nets

Key takeaways from the Nets' massive win over the Suns

A resurgent Brooklyn Nets showcase their prowess against the Phoenix Suns.

Peter Sunjic

© Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
In this story:

Before going up against the Phoenix Suns, the Brooklyn Nets were on fire, winning four games in a row. However, a tough loss to the Sacramento Kings, where they gave up too many three-pointers, put a damper on their winning streak.

That was enough motivation for the Nets to come into this game against the Suns with chips on their shoulder. With Mikal Bridges and Cameron Johnson returning to their former team, the stakes were high in this game. Here are the key highlights from the Nets' significant 116-112 victory.

The Nets play much better when Dinwiddie is distributing

This game was a classic Spencer Dinwiddie performance as he scored 16 points while grabbing eight rebounds and dishing out seven assists. It was a superb performance from the veteran point guard as they needed the offensive punch he provided with his three-point shooting and his passing.

Dinwiddie opened up so much space for his teammates and it paid off as every bit of his seven assists contributed to the win. He wasn’t too bad at his clutch shot-making too as he was dubbed “Himwiddie” by commentator Ian Eagle.

Nic Claxton showed off his range

It was another solid game for Nic Claxton as he posted 14 points and grabbed seven rebounds. However, the highlight of the game for him came when he successfully made a three-pointer. This was unexpected since Nic is generally recognized for his presence in the paint.

Yet, he hinted at this earlier in the season when he was adding mid-range shots to his offensive arsenal. It was a clean jump shot as Bradley Beal didn’t bother to close out properly and Nic made him pay.

Bridges and Johnson are in the right place

This was Bridges and Johnson’s first game in Phoenix after they were traded way back in February 2023. They impressed with solid performances as Mikal scored 21 points while Johnson chipped in with 15 of his own.

This was the validation they needed to prove they were better than what they were back in Phoenix. Bridges has grown into an All-Star-worthy player while Cam is a crucial part of the Nets’ system.

Now the Nets move over to the Mile High City as they play against Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets. Despite the upcoming tough game, the Nets seem to be in good shape, judging by their recent strong showing against the Suns.

GAME PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: Brooklyn Nets vs. Denver Nuggets

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/News