Nets Look to Avoid Last Place in the Eastern Conference in Matchup Against the Hawks
The Brooklyn Nets have sunk further down the Eastern Conference standings. Currently, they’re 14th with a 15-40 record and a game ahead of the Indiana Pacers for last place. On Sunday, February 22nd, they’ll head to State Farm Arena for a matchup with the Atlanta Hawks. Atlanta goes into this game with a 27-31 record, ninth in the East. Brooklyn will look to stop Jalen Johnson, who’s leading the Hawks in points, rebounds, and assists in a season where Atlanta is restructuring the team for the future and potentially around Johnson.
Michael Porter Jr.’s play will be huge in this game. He’s currently close to averaging 25 points per game and has been the clear star of this Nets team. After Brooklyn waived Cam Thomas, this team will look to their younger players who are looking to increase their minutes and become an everyday starter or a clear franchise piece. Brooklyn will be without Nic Claxton once again, who’s been out since February 9th with hip soreness and a right ankle sprain, which he suffered in practice. Day'Ron Sharpe should look to fill the void and provide a solid start.
Atlanta has a wide array of weapons that it can deploy against the Nets. Whether that be Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Buddy Hield, or Dyson Daniels. With Johnson improving tremendously in his fifth season, averaging close to a triple-double with 23 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists, along with a steal and a block a game, the Hawks have the manpower to easily take control of this game. Especially, on their own home court.
The matchup of Porter Jr. against Johnson will be pivotal throughout this game. If the 2023 NBA Champion forward can shut down the Hawks’ leading scorer, the Nets could have a chance in this one. However, if Johnson efficiently scores, passes the ball well, and pulls down some offensive rebounds for second-chance points, Brooklyn will have no chance. Brooklyn will need a strong showing from all their young stars.
Even in late February, the Nets are already looking towards the NBA Draft. This game will certainly be Atlanta’s game for the taking. After being embarrassed all season long, especially in their January 21st matchup against the New York Knicks, Brooklyn may show up for the fight. Yet, it’s presumed the Nets will deal with another devastating loss on Sunday night.
