Inside The Nets

Frank Isola on what happened to the Nets against the Magic

Brooklyn had a horrible performance against Orlando, which drew some rightful criticism.
Peter Sunjic|
© Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports

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Brooklyn NetsOrlando Magic

The Nets had one of the most disappointing performances when they couldn’t compete against the Orlando Magic. It was a big blow, especially when you know that All-Star forward Paolo Banchero did not play for Orlando, making them more vulnerable than usual.

Mikal Bridges had a season-low four points when he became the go-to scorer with Cameron Thomas out with an ankle injury. It led to plenty of reactions around the media, particularly from YES Network’s Frank Isola.

“The Brooklyn Nets over the last 28 minutes of this game trailed by double figures. Really, really disappointing. Mikal Bridges did not have it going tonight, very sloppy. They were turning the ball over, left and right,” Isola said on the YES post-game broadcast. 

“I get it, the second night of a back-to-back, but Orlando was missing their best player, Paolo Banchero, and they absolutely cruised to a victory tonight.”

Isola highlights the issue with the Nets

The Nets could’ve had an 11-point deficit heading into halftime of the game against the Magic. Instead, they gave up a three to Caleb Houstan, who extended the lead to 14. Coach Kevin Ollie was adamant that the Nets should bounce back in the first few plays of the second half.

That did not happen, as Brooklyn conceded five quick points, which ballooned the lead to 19. The Magic never looked back after that. Getting blown out has been a regular occurrence for Brooklyn over the past month because they tend to take their foot away from the gas pedal when they’re behind.

The Nets must fight back and play with the positive energy Coach Ollie is looking for. Brooklyn still has a chance to make the postseason, and they’ll need to solve this lack of energy issue to win more games.

Brooklyn can bounce back

Despite the tough losses, Brooklyn has the roster to compete with any team in the league. With two games against the Atlanta Hawks happening soon, the Nets can insert themselves in the Play-In Tournament picture. It will be a big-time challenge to beat a motivated Hawks team, even without Trae Young.

Coach Ollie will rely on Bridges, Nic Claxton, and the rest of the supporting cast to step up. Brooklyn fans hope for Cam Thomas to return as soon as possible from an ankle injury, as the trio can lead this team to prolonged success.

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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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