Opinion
3 min read

Can the Brooklyn Nets Soar Past the Pelicans at Smoothie King Center?

As the Brooklyn Nets prepare to face off against the New Orleans Pelicans, fans are left pondering whether their team can turn around a season that's been riddled with inconsistencies. The upcoming clash at the Smoothie King Center is more than just another game on the schedule; it's an opportunity for redemption.


CHICAGO, IL - FEBRUARY 24: Mikal Bridges #1 of the Brooklyn Nets handles the ball during the game against the Chicago Bulls on February 24, 2023 at United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Nets' recent performances have been a mixed bag of effort and execution. On December 28, despite a valiant effort against the Milwaukee Bucks, they fell short with a score of 122-144. The game showcased their ability to rack up points in paint (70) and their bench's significant contribution of 79 points, but defensive woes allowed too many points off turnovers (11) and second-chance points (25). Their defensive rating was alarmingly high at 142.4 – a number that needs to be tightened up if they wish to contend seriously.


Just days later on December 30, facing Washington Wizards proved less challenging as they managed to keep it close but ultimately lost with a scoreline of 104-110. The team showed some improvement in defense but still struggled from beyond the arc with only a 32 percent success rate from three-point land.


Entering January, Brooklyn faced Oklahoma City Thunder on New Year’s Day where they were outscored by sixteen points resulting in another loss (108-124). This game highlighted several areas for concern: shooting only 26 percent from three-point range and allowing opponents too much freedom leading to an opponent offensive rating of over 121.


The pattern emerging here is clear: while capable offensively, BKN must tighten up defensively if they want better outcomes. They've shown sparks of brilliance but lack consistency – particularly in closing out games strongly and defending without fouling.


Looking ahead at NOP’s home advantage could be daunting; however, this could also be seen as an opportunity for BKN players like Kevin Durant or Kyrie Irving to step up and lead by example both offensively and defensively. It will take more than individual brilliance though; cohesive team defense will be paramount against NOP's dynamic offense.


In conclusion, while past performances may not inspire confidence among fans, sports are unpredictable by nature. If BKN can address its defensive frailties and capitalize on scoring opportunities as demonstrated previously in paint dominance and bench production - there might just be hope yet for this underperforming squad.


The showdown is set for January 2nd at Smoothie King Center starting at 8:00 PM Eastern Time (-05:00 GMT). Fans eager not to miss any action should tune into YES Network channel number 631 or BSNO channel number 676-4 depending on their locale preferences.

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