Inside The Nets

The takeaways from Brooklyn's blowout loss to the Knicks

Another game, another loss for the Nets as they continue to slide down the standings.
Peter Sunjic|
© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

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Brooklyn NetsNew York Knicks

The Nets are now on a four-game losing streak after being beaten by inter-borough rivals, the New York Knicks, 102 to 121. This was a disappointing performance from Brooklyn, as their fans expected them to play with more energy and a sense of urgency after a lackluster road trip.

Jacque Vaughn's squad looked lethargic on the court as they were outworked by the Knicks. Despite both teams coming back from road trips from the West, New York looked like they're the more well-rested team. Cam Thomas and Cam Johnson had good games with 20 points apiece, but beyond them, the rest struggled offensively.

Brooklyn's energy was limited

The Nets did not match the Knicks' hustle. This was evident with the rebounding as the Knicks won the battle with 54 compared to Brooklyn's 49. They let Josh Hart dominate the rebounds as the 6'5" guard grabbed a game-high 13 boards.

Hart, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Donte DiVincenzo were difference-makers for the Knicks as they out-hustled their opponents. This should be a lesson for Brooklyn because they have good talent on the roster, but showing hard work and hustle should be a priority every night.

Even coach Vaughn did not want to make excuses about long road trips because the Knicks also arrived from a similar stretch. The Nets have to show heart to help propel them to more victories.

Mikal's struggles continue

Mikal Bridges has not played his best basketball over the past week. Ever since they went on the Western Conference road trip, the Villanova product has struggled with its efficiency. This was evident in this game as Mikal played 33 minutes but only scored 15 points on a horrendous 4-of-21 from the field.

This has been a tough stretch for Bridges, but all he has to do is settle down and keep shooting. That is how players get out of slumps, which his close friend and teammate Cam Johnson told him after the game.

Day'Ron Sharpe was a bright spot

Despite the loss, Day'Ron Sharpe showed some promising developments. In only 19 minutes, Sharpe scored nine points while grabbing 15 rebounds, nine of which were offensive. This is a good sign for Sharpe's future as a backup big because his rebounding numbers continue to remain off the charts.

He can build from this as the season goes along as he and Nic Claxton continue to be an important part of coach Vaughn's system. They give the Nets a stable presence in the paint, which matters when their stars struggle.

Brooklyn looks to end this losing streak on December 22 as they face the defending champs, the Denver Nuggets, at the Barclays Center.

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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