Inside The Nets

The Nets lose a heartbreaker against the Trail Blazers 127-134

The Nets conceded too much during the overtime period.

Peter Sunjic

© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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The Brooklyn Nets were the favorites heading into the game against the Portland Trail Blazers. Jacque Vaughn and his team did well in the first three quarters, maintaining a lead over the Blazers, but crumbled in the fourth quarter, eventually losing after a thrilling overtime period, 127-134.

Mikal Bridges was brilliant for Brooklyn, finishing with 42 points, while Nic Claxton contributed another double-double of 16 points, 11 rebounds, and four blocks.

For Portland, Anfernee Simons stood out with 38 points and 11 assists, while Jerami Grant chipped in with 27 points.

“Yeah, very disappointing. Just overall to not win this basketball game, extremely disappointing,” Coach Vaughn said after the loss. “The more disappointing is the amount of possessions we gave away. Whether we were up by seven in the first or second quarter and we gave away possessions by being cute and not being simple. Those possessions get you a two-point lead at halftime instead of a 12-point lead; that’s why we got a ball game.”

Late-game struggles continue for Brooklyn

To start the fourth quarter, the Nets held a 93-85 lead and looked primed for a win. However, that did not happen because Brooklyn struggled to hit shots in the final frame’s first seven minutes. The Blazers held a 101-108 lead, prompting Coach JV to insert Dennis Smith Jr. to play good defense and handle ball-handling duties.

It was Bridges who would get the Nets back into the game as he hit many big shots. The former Villanova Wildcat hit the biggest shot of regulation as he stepped back against Toumani Camara and made a sweet mid-range jumper to tie it all up at 115.

Unfortunately, Brooklyn couldn’t keep it up in overtime as Malcolm Brogdon took over by hitting two consecutive three-pointers and a lay-up to seal the game for the Blazers.

Distressing loss ahead of the Nets’ Paris trip

The Nets could’ve had a good atmosphere heading into their trip to Paris, where they play the Cleveland Cavaliers, but they head into the match with a loss. It is a disappointing result for the Nets, and the team should reflect on this defeat to help address their issues.

Brooklyn also has to deal with another injury because Day’Ron Sharpe was diagnosed with a knee sprain after the game. He is a huge loss because he and Claxton have been constant bright spots for Brooklyn amidst the team’s struggles.

The Nets play their next game in Paris against the Cavs on January 10 at Accor Arena.

Nic Claxton is excited ahead of the Nets' road game in Paris

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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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