Inside The Nets

Lonnie Walker IV's mentality when faced with injury issues

Lonnie Walker IV wants to play every game, even through injury troubles.
Peter Sunjic|
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Brooklyn Nets

Lonnie Walker IV has faced many injury issues during his career, but he still wants to play every chance he gets. Of course, there are times when his injuries are too severe to keep playing. The latest example was a bum ankle, which couldn’t keep Lonnie out of the Nets’ win against Philadelphia.

Coming into the game against the 76ers, Lonnie was questionable after spraining his ankle in the previous game against Memphis. Walker was fit enough to play, and he impressed, scoring 19 points on 4-for-6 from beyond the arc and a stellar +29 plus-minus. It was a noteworthy performance, especially when you consider his injury.

“Understanding that capability. I don’t like to make excuses for myself. My father always said never to show a man weakness. So when I go on that court I’m not trying to play slow or seem like I’m injured or whatnot. Just trying my best to put it to work,” Walker said to the press after the game.

Walker is motivated to help Brooklyn get into the Play-In

Brooklyn is lucky to have someone like Lonnie because he’s intent on helping the team reach the postseason. He has experience playing for a top team like the LA Lakers in the 2022/23 season, even reaching the Western Conference Finals.

With Walker pivoting away from his role in LA, he wants to contribute and help the Nets make it into the postseason. It is a challenging objective, but it’s possible if the Nets keep playing as they did against Philly.

Lonnie is ready to keep embracing his sixth-man role, as he is the primary option off the bench. It is a golden opportunity, especially since the former Miami Hurricane wants to secure a contract for the foreseeable future.

Being reliable earns the organization’s trust

Being available for every game is a superb trait for any NBA player. That is why Nets star Mikal Bridges is renowned around the league because he’s one of the most reliable players due to his availability. He has not missed a game in his NBA career, which makes him a fixture of the Nets lineup.

Lonnie wants that reputation as he keeps stepping up to the plate. Of course, significant injuries deserve a spell on the sidelines, but Lonnie would love to keep playing as much as he can.

GAME PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: Brooklyn Nets vs. Detroit Pistons

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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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