Brooklyn showed grit and fight against the Grizzlies. But can't shed a big deficit, nor close out, in taking the new loss to Memphis.
The Brooklyn Nets entered the FedEx Forum without Michael Porter Jr. in the starting lineup. They briefly erased a 16-point deficit without him against the Memphis Grizzlies.
But the home team escaped 103-98 on Sunday night -- handing Brooklyn its third consecutive defeat.
The game presents a concoction of good and bad on the side of the Nets. Leading into our five takeaways here.
1 -- Credit the resiliency
Brooklyn could've folded the lawn chair and go home. Especially without its lead scorer and nearly getting down by 20.
Except the Nets kept chipping away.
The effort won over head coach Jordi Fernandez. He especially raved about one breakout performer on the side of the Nets.
2 -- One Rookie is 'Growing' in Front of Fernandez
Nolan Traore provided an impact on the facilitator side.
He dished out six assists on the floor -- now a career-high. Though Fernandez likes this stat line: Zero turnovers.
"I think he's being aggressive. And I think he's used his voice," Fernandez said after the game with reporters. "As we know he's a young kid, but he's worked really hard and works like a pro. He's getting better."
3 -- Another Rookie Shined
Danny Wolf joined Traore as the impressive first-year players showing growth.
Wolf scored 11 points in the starting rotation. But added 10 rebounds for the double-double -- the first for his career.
Wolf even showed his hustle on the hardwood.
4 -- Time to Blunt About Finishing
Brooklyn has been off when it comes to finishing.
This team led momentarily 98-90 after erasing the large deficit. Yet it's the Grizzlies closing out with the win.
Brooklyn's shots clanked off the hoop or glass five consecutive times when the Nets had possession of the basketball. But finishing basketball games continues to be a flaw for this group. It's a common mistake for young teams, but ultimately this group must figure out how to close.
5 -- Effect of MPJ Shows
Once again, credit the effort of Brooklyn without Porter.
But this team flows so much better when he's in the lineup.
Noah Clowney and Tyrese Martin scored 17 points each to lead the way. Wolf and Jalen Wilson chipped in 11 apiece. But MPJ hands Brooklyn a guaranteed 18 or 20+ scoring night on the floor. And that effect makes it even harder for this franchise to entertain trading him.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our NETS ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news! It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected