Fernández Says Nets ‘Need’ Clowney After Mavericks Loss

Noah Clowney spent eight minutes on the floor before fouling out in the Brooklyn Nets' 130-93 loss to the Dallas Mavericks last Sunday.

It's the second time he's fouled out this season. The first came in the season-opening 110-103 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on Oct. 21, and Clowney played 22 minutes.

Coach Jordi Fernández said the 6-foot-10 forward must channel his frustration without hurting the team. Clowney's early fouls helped put Dallas into the bonus, forcing Brooklyn's defense to play more conservatively.

Fernández backed the 22-year-old throughout his struggles. He said assistant coach Juwan Howard is helping him and that the Nets need him.

Clowney scored five points in the second quarter in last Wednesday's win over the Hornets. Brooklyn matched Charlotte's pace with the help of its 2023 first-round pick.

The 6-foot-10 forward has struggled this season adjusting to coming off the bench. He's averaging five points on 37.2/26.1/70.6 splits and 4.5 rebounds in 19.7 minutes.

General manager Sean Marks' trade for Julius Randle shocked the rotation. Clowney started 60 games, a career-high last season, and thrived with more opportunities.

Now, the 22-year-old has to find his advantages in the offense's flow and focus on a defensive-minded role.

Clowney said he's focused on improving and helping the team win games. He understands he has to take the wide-open shots when they come and play defense.

The 22-year-old is arguably Brooklyn's most important free agent next offseason. He's entering restricted free agency and the team can match other suitors’ offer sheets.

Brooklyn’s coaching staff has played a significant role in Clowney’s development. They have helped him stay calm in the moment, living with the results of his work regardless of the outcome.

The fourth-year forward may be getting the bulk of the backup minutes right now, but Josh Minott is quietly waiting for his opportunity.

Minott scored 15 points and grabbed eight rebounds in last Sunday's 136-109 loss to the Indiana Pacers.

The 6-foot-8 forward is shooting 23.1% from three in a small sample. His performance against the Pacers was the only time he played over 10 minutes.

General manager Sean Marks invested into Minott. He signed him to a two-year, $9 million contract this offseason after an impressive 16-game stretch.

Fernández isn't shy about changing his rotation, especially since Brooklyn is 2-8. Clowney has time to bounce back from his struggles against the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday.