Brooklyn Nets: Lessons from first 52 Games
Feb 10, 2015; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward
Zach Randolph(50) dribbles the ball past Brooklyn Nets center Mason Plumlee (1) at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Following the All Star break, the Nets have to show fans some signs of life. They need to play like they are actually competing for a playoff spot and have to get better production from their players.
What would make a good second “half” (30 games) of the season?
The Big Three have to play like the Big Three.
If each of them can score at least 17 PPG the rest of the way, then the Nets would be in good shape.
Kevin Garnett must continue to be a leader.
If he wants to have another chance in the playoffs before retiring, he needs to assert his on-court coach mentality and provide a spark. Whether with the Nets or with another team, KG provides the experience.
Mason Plumlee has taken a big step this year, but he could still get better.
The developing Plumlee has to become more of a factor offensively and has to learn to play with Lopez in order for the Nets to be good.
Bench scoring.
Alan Anderson has had some good games so far, but he needs to step it up even more and play consistently following the break. Everyone else on the bench needs to make good use of their minutes as well and make an impact.
The first half has resulted in a 21-31 record, yet they Nets are within reach of the 7th & 8th seeds in the East. If they get to 36 wins, they would probably make the playoffs, but maybe not if Walker and Wade return to their respective teams and play well. 40 wins would definitely be enough, but it may be tough to ask them to go 19-11 the rest of the way.
If they do go 19-11 and get to 40 wins, then great. That would give them some momentum heading into the playoffs and they could possibly shock us by winning some playoff games. The Nets managed to surprise up until now (not in a good way), so maybe they can reverse their fortunes and give us a good surprise within the final 30 games.