Brooklyn Nets: 3 takeaways from upsets over Jazz and 76ers

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 07: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts after a foul during the second half against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on January 07, 2021 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Nets won 122-109. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

2. Nets Figuring Out How to Defend

Before knocking off the Jazz and 76ers, the Nets seemed like a team with serious defensive complications. Although they hung around to win, Brooklyn surrendered 141 points to the Atlanta Hawks last week. A few days later, they allowed a lowly Wizards team to put up 123 points. Failing to rotate fast enough, struggling to cover the ball handler on pick and roll plays, and inexcusable defensive rebounding breakdowns stood primarily responsible for the high scoring totals, and consequently the team’s 3-4 record at the time.

But against the Jazz, the Nets conceded only 96 points, and let up just 109 points to the Sixers. Before facing Brooklyn, Utah averaged 112 PPG this season, while Philadelphia averaged 115.

So what changed for the Nets? Well, Steve Nash’s remixed starting lineup this week certainly was a contributing factor. Bruce Brown rose from benchwarmer to starter against Utah, and showed off the on-ball defensive skillset which made him a former fan favorite with the Detroit Pistons.

Additionally, Jarrett Allen’s playing time increase affected Brooklyn’s defense as well. As a faster, more agile, and — most importantly — a more willing defender than Jordan, whenever Allen took the floor, the team appeared much more sturdy while aiming to lock things down.

From a more general standpoint, though, the Nets seemed far more active with their defensive schemes and efforts. Although their pick and roll defense looked shaky once more against Philadelphia, Brooklyn still closed out on shooters much faster than before, and most importantly rebounded with more vigor. While Allen and Brown deserve additional nods for this, players like Harris, LeVert, and even Jordan off the bench made a difference as well.

The Nets remain a more offensive-minded team with their defense still a work in progress. However, these encouraging signs shows that Brooklyn is headed in the right direction.