What we learned from the Nets' disappointing result against Memphis

After two consecutive wins, the Nets had momentum coming into this game against the Memphis Grizzlies. Unfortunately, they did not look like a confident team, as the Brooklyn Nets lost to an underhanded Grizzlies squad 106 to 102.

The game led to a disappointing result for the Nets because they could’ve cut the deficit in the Play-In Tournament race. Unfortunately, there are multiple takeaways from this game, and there are limited positives.

Final: Grizzlies 106 - Nets 102
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) March 5, 2024

Brooklyn has trouble with playing with energy

Coach Kevin Ollie wants his team to be consistent in playing with energy. That was not the case against the Grizzlies because they looked a step slower than their opponents. It looked like they were lethargic as Memphis dominated the rebound battle, 50 to 33.

The Grizzlies scored 25 second-chance points, which shouldn’t happen, especially to a team instructed to play with energy like Brooklyn. Ollie was displeased with his players’ lack of effort, but he’s confident that the Nets will recover in the second leg of a back-to-back against the 76ers.

He also noted that Brooklyn is not the most talented NBA team, and being scrappy could be the difference-maker for their bid to compete in the Play-In Tournament.

Kevin Ollie on tonight's loss to the Grizzlies:

"When we got in the fight, we didn't keep swinging. When you don't keep swinging, you get knocked out. We're not talented enough to do that. We've got to be the most scrappiest team" pic.twitter.com/BAUfIjf9QQ
— Nets Videos (@SNYNets) March 5, 2024

Mikal’s struggles have returned

After a 38-point night against the Hawks, Mikal Bridges struggled against Memphis. It was unfortunate for him, as he couldn’t score at the same rate, only having 14 points on an abysmal 4-for-14 from the field.

Bridges took accountability for his performance after the game, considering he was out there for most of the 48 minutes.

“I was out there 39 minutes. Just a bad one from me. Take a lot of the blame for tonight. Just sucks but gotta get ready for tomorrow,” Mikal said after the crushing loss.

Brooklyn must hit more of their free-throws

The Nets shot 17-for-30 from the charity stripe, and hitting at least five could lead to the win. Mikal had a rough night with his free throws, as he shot 4-for-9. It’s good he took accountability for the loss because he can elevate his performance against the 76ers.

Dennis Schroder, Nic Claxton, and Day’Ron Sharpe all missed multiple free throws, so they should be hitting more shots from the charity stripe, which could lead to more wins in the next 21 fixtures.

Final: Grizzlies 106, Nets 102

Brooklyn misses 13 free throws while allowing 25 second-chance points.

Any momentum they appeared to be building with two straight wins over Atlanta is halted. And they have a back-to-back tomorrow.
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) March 5, 2024

Brooklyn has trouble with playing with energy

Mikal’s struggles have returned

Brooklyn must hit more of their free-throws

Brooklyn blows a golden opportunity in a crushing loss to the Grizzlies