Brooklyn Nets: 3 Reasons BK struggles against bad NBA teams

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CLEVELAND, OHIO – JANUARY 22: Collin Sexton #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers tries to shoot over Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot #9, and DeAndre Jordan #6 of the Brooklyn Nets during the second quarter at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on January 22, 2021, in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, the user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

2. Nets Facing Outstanding Opponent Performances

For sub-.500 teams, playing against Brooklyn will be their biggest game of the season. Lesser teams sometimes play their best against higher-level competition.

Some of the NBA’s most talented players have put on some excellent performances against the Nets this season, using these contests as showcase games for their own developmental cases.

Collin Sexton had 42 points, five assists, and five rebounds in a 147-135 overtime win for the Cavaliers, which still remains that team’s season highlight. Russell Westbrook put up 41 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists in a 149-146 comeback victory versus Brooklyn, by far the most impactful game of Washington’s season.

Other examples? I’m glad you asked. Pascal Siakam had a 33-point, 11-rebound performance in a 123-117 win for the Raptors. Orlando Magic forward Aaron Gordon scored 38 points in a 121-113 home victory over the Nets on March 19. Sexton, Westbrook, Siakam, and Gordon’s amazing individual performances are clear examples of Brooklyn’s defensive struggles in games they should be winning. But sometimes you just get beat by a superstar playing out of his shoes.

Speaking of defense, though…