WASHINGTON — The Nets displayed their depth by defeating the Wizards on the road, 112-100, two nights after defeating the Pacers on the road, despite being without eight rotation players, including their five regular starters.
True, Washington did not play with Bradley Beal. However, the Nets have already showed the ability to rotate in excellent replacements. Nic Claxton, who was recovering from a hamstring ailment, was burdened with three fouls in a scoreless 4:44 first quarter, while his rival Kristaps Porzingis scored 12 points on 5-for-7 shooting. Markieff Morris, who recorded a double-double against the Pacers on Monday, was a plus-4 in 6:12 minutes of play, holding the fort. The Nets had 11 players, and Kyrie Irving hinted at lineup changes in the future if players aren’t playing hard.
Coach Jacque Vaughn stated, “It puts a little bit more pressure on the player to produce because there is someone who can sub in and come in and play hard and efficiently and successfully.” “This occurred early for Nic, and the transaction was swift. We had a few of defensive breakdowns, but we had a replacement for him, so he was able to return. Therefore, I appreciate that it puts the guys under pressure to produce and holds them accountable. However, we have some depth, which we intend to utilize.”
During the Nets’ triumph over the Wizards, Markieff Morris fights for a rebound.
The league trade deadline is not until February, although the season for trades unofficially begins on December 15, when players signed over the offseason can be traded. This implies that rumors will begin to circulate prior to Thursday, with one involving Joe Harris.
The Athletic reports that the Nets offered their longest-tenured player as the centerpiece in a deal for John Collins, but Atlanta declined. The Nets’ front staff holds Harris in high respect, and he has emerged from his early-season funk. Notably, Irving and Seth Curry both become free agents this summer, which might leave the Nets without a 3-point shooter.
Collins averages 12.3 points per game, and his scoring, field-goal percentage, and 3-point % have all decreased annually since 2019-20.
G-League Long Island asked for exemptions for forward Emmanuel Egbuta. He was a feel-good tale, having been acquired by Long Island earlier to the season as a local tryout player.
»Nets demonstrate their depth in a variety of ways against Wizards«