Porter-Randle Connection Paying Dividends Early for Nets

The Brooklyn Nets have looked dynamic through their opening three NBA Preseason victories, scoring 131 points in Monday's win over the Washington Wizards.

Brooklyn recorded 29 assists, moving the ball efficiently and setting players up with good looks.

Former 3-time All Star forward Julius Randle served as the team's primary playmaker, recording nine assists in the first half alone. 

Randle did a great job of getting downhill, and finding shooters on the perimeter, kicking to Noah Clowney and Michael Porter Jr. for open 3-point looks.

Porter led all scorers with 22 points, making eight of his 13 shot attempts, including two long balls.

After the Nets acquired Randle via trade, I reported on the potential fit that he and Porter present, while saying that it should pay dividends.

Randle, who is one of the most-physical drivers in the NBA, will be able to use his ability to get in the paint to draw in the defense and kick to Porter.

Porter is one of the most-efficient catch-and-shoot players in the league, and likes ot use his range to help open lanes for his teammates.

Early on in the preseason, Randle and Porter have looked connected, with the Nets' leading scorer capitalizing on his new teammate's passing skills.

Randle has already also begun serving as the Nets' veteran presence and leader, as head coach Jordi Fernández noted after the team's second victory.

"3-time All-Star, has been in the playoffs multiple times, and he’s the first one to dive on the floor and pickup full court," Fernández said. "I couldn't ask for a better leader or a better vet… We need that. That’s contagious."

Despite most projections placing the Nets within the basement of the reloaded Eastern Conference, Randle has talked about wanting to shock the NBA world.

At Brooklyn's recent media day, Randle was asked about his former squad, the New York Knicks, winning the title this past season, to which he responded "It was a great thing not just for them, for the city...We plan to do the same thing here."

While an NBA title remains a far-fetched goal for this Nets team, having championship work ethic and culture is within reach.

For Randle, who has played in a lot of big postseason games, but is yet to reach the finals, he is hoping to help Brooklyn get back to contendership.

Randle showing such a high level of competitiveness and energy in just the second game of the preseason is extremely encouraging and will set an example for the other players on the roster.

For Porter, who admittedly struggled to keep his level of intensity high through the conclusion of last year's difficult season, having a steady veteran presence like Randle should be very beneficial.