Brooklyn Nets vs. Cleveland Cavaliers Takeaways and Player Grades
By Tj Porreca
Takeaways
1. Brook Lopez recovered after a slow start
Brook Lopez scored just four points in the first half — a half in which most of the Nets struggled. But he bounced back nicely in the second half. Lopez scored 13 points in the second half, to finish with 17 on the night. Overall, he shot 5-of-10 from the field, including one made three-pointer. Lopez also added six points at the free throw line. In the first half, Lopez’s lack of an impact was notable. But in the second half Lopez produced more in his typical fashion.
2. Caris LeVert made his mark
Yes, the Nets fell short. But one of the great things about this game was the play of Caris LeVert. He got extended minutes (27 minutes) and took advantage. He shot 7-of-12 from the field, on his way to 19 points. He made two three pointers, and added three points at the free throw line. He also dished out five assists, and pulled down four rebounds. The Nets were very careful with LeVert when he returned from his foot injury. But he’s healthy now, and he’s making an impact. For a Nets team that has been lacking draft picks recently, it’s great to see one of the young, drafted player’s excel.
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3. The Nets erupted in the fourth quarter
Just how good were the Nets in the fourth quarter? Well, good enough to nearly complete the comeback and knock off the defending champions. While that didn’t happen, here’s a gauge of how well the Nets played: Brooklyn scored 40 points in the fourth quarter. The Nets, as a reminder, scored 39 points in the entire first half. The Nets won the point-margin in the fourth quarter by 10 points, 40-30, but it wasn’t enough to erase what was an 18 point deficit at the end of three quarters. Still, though, a loss to Cleveland isn’t something to be ashamed of. After all, Cleveland’s loss total matches Brooklyn’s win total (eight). But the fact that the Nets showed fight is commendable. Brooklyn could’ve packed it in at the end of three quarters when they were down by 18, but the Nets fought hard.