Inside The Nets

Head coach Jacque Vaughn takes responsibility for the Nets' skid

The Nets have fallen to a four-game losing streak.
Peter Sunjic|
© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

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Brooklyn Nets

The Brooklyn Nets are going through their worst stretch of the 2023/24 season so far, with a four-game losing streak and winning only one of their last six games. The latest loss was a 102-121 defeat to their cross-town rivals New York Knicks.

There have been some disappointing performances from the team, particularly Mikal Bridges, who has struggled to score as of late. Head coach Jacque Vaughn does not want to put any blame on his players as he's making himself responsible for the team's defeats.

"It is really on me to take a closer look if there is a lineup change that needs to be had to get our group going," Jacque Vaughn said in his post-game interview. "Like I told you, I've been taking data of this group. How we can get out to better starts?"

The Nets need a confidence boost

While the Knicks outworked Brooklyn, a big issue in this game was their lackluster shooting. Mikal had another down performance with a 4-of-21, as he's evidently in a shooting slump. Spencer Dinwiddie was the same, making only 3 of 11 shots.

Thankfully, Cameron Thomas continued his string of good games with 20 points, while Cameron Johnson also chipped in with 20 points of his own. They were the two players who kept the Nets in the game, but the Knicks' energy was too much for the Nets, and coach Vaughn struggled to control the matchup.

This team needs a confidence boost as they're looking lethargic. Coach Vaughn will have to initiate a reset as he looks to encourage and motivate his team again after a frustrating six-game stretch.

Brooklyn is looking to bounce back

In the upcoming matches, the Nets have an opportunity to regain their confidence, facing off against the reigning champs, the Denver Nuggets. This matchup provides a chance to bounce back, especially considering the Nuggets' defensive ranking of 11th at 113.5, presenting a potential redemption game for Mikal Bridges and the entire team.

Brooklyn also plays against the league-worst Detroit Pistons on two consecutive nights, which is the Nets' best opportunity to regain their confidence. Pair that with Dennis Smith Jr. and Lonnie Walker IV returning soon; there is cause for optimism for the Nets. 

Jacque Vaughn provides cryptic recovery update around Lonnie Walker IV, Dennis Smith Jr. after Nets' rocky road trip

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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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