The Nets have garnered their first back-to-back win of the season as they defeated the Phoenix Suns. “Defeat” might be an understatement as the Nets completely annihilated Phoenix, coming out with a 22 point lead win, 102-84. In the first quarter both teams went on about a 6 minute run filled with mediocre basketball play; would be nice to say it was great defense, however it was just downright terrible offense. While the Suns took the lead late in the first half, the second half was the green light for the young Nets to show what they’re capable of. Caris LeVert continued to show his offensive prowess finishing 26 points on 10-16 from the field and leading the Nets to their 3rd win in the last 4 games.
Pros;
- Caris LeVert deserves to be in the all star conversation. His improvement season to season is inspiring; and he is exemplifying the consistency that we previously discussed was needed to be successful in the league with the Nets. Caris is shooting 53% from three, and he is averaging 25 points in the last 3 games. This proves his offensive awareness, and ability to make a change within the team, which has been proving successful game to game.
- Spencer Dinwiddie continues to be a force off the bench, (he wants that contract). Dinwiddie finds the best ways to score when he’s needed. It may not come in flashy 20 or 30 point games, however they come right on time. Last night against the Suns he finished with 12 points, grabbed 5 boards and dished out 3 assists, while shooting 71.4 from the field (5/7 FG). He does a little of everything, on both ends of the court.
- Ball movement has been a clear plus. The Nets have found ways to move the ball, as they spread the touches. They have improved on making sure the right play is made, without having the ball become stagnant. The Nets dished out 22 assists to the Suns 16, also committing 10 turnovers to the Suns 20.
- The defense from this young team has been refreshing to see. So far this season the Nets are 9th on the team defensive ranking, with points allowed below 110.0. Last night they played “smart defense” as they moved inside forcing Suns center Deandre Ayton to take mid-shot jumpers rather than work inside the paint. Why was it smart? Well Ayton didn’t do so well with being forced out of his comfort zone as he went 35.3% from the field. “We’re growing up in terms of our physicality on the defensive end,” said Coach Kenny Atkinson and that has shown.
The Nets seem to be finding their rhythm and coming into their own as a team. As they continue their road trip, next they take on the Denver Nuggets who are now 9-1 in the season. This will be no easy feat but I’m sure they embrace the challenge.