The Brooklyn Nets gave their fans an early Christmas present on Saturday night. It could also be considered a Festivus present, but regardless, it was a major win for Brooklyn, who was in desperate need of a win after five straight defeats.
Brooklyn's 126-115 over Detroit Saturday night was the Pistons' 26th consecutive loss, which ties an NBA single-season record. Mikal Bridges broke out of his slump on Saturday night in a big way, scoring 29 points on 9-17 shooting, with seven assists and six rebounds. He was by far the best player on the court.
Mikal Bridges performance should inspire confidence in Nets Nation
When Bridges was traded to Brooklyn, he became the focal point of the Nets team, which was a big role change for him. In Phoenix, Bridges played the fourth fiddle behind Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and even DeAndre Ayton. It's taken him a while to get accustomed to the lead role, a role he is capable of handling, as evidenced by his dominant performance.
Pistons coach Monty Williams, the Suns' coach (and Bridges' coach) from 2019-2023, spoke glowingly of Bridges' development pregame.
Monty Williams on Mikal Bridges' development as a lead scorer in Phoenix last season:
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) December 24, 2023
“You just started to see this guy that was not afraid of those moments... He’s probably a flagship for me as far as player development.” pic.twitter.com/VVXkhsnc8Z
Williams is right; Bridges is a flagship for him in player development. He turned into a lean-body guy known for his defensive abilities and built him into a player with immense confidence who is not afraid to create and take a shot from anywhere on the court.
Cam Johnson, another feather in Williams' development hat from their time together in Phoenix, dropped 18 points on six of 10 shooting. Seven Nets reached double figures in the win.
Joe Harris returned to Brooklyn
Ex-Net guard Joe Harris made his triumphant return to Brooklyn, scored zero points, and grabbed one rebound in seven minutes of action. In seven seasons with Brooklyn from 2016 through 2023, Harris was one of the most consistent Nets, averaging 11.6 points per game.
Nets coach Jacque Vaughn spoke abut the impact Harris had on the Nets pregame.
"Incredible human being. Ultimate teammate."
— Nets Videos (@SNYNets) December 23, 2023
Jacque Vaughn talks about his recollections of Joe Harris ahead of his return to Brooklyn with the Pistons tonight: pic.twitter.com/V8WaDsGfcj
Merry Christmas everybody! Enjoy the Holidays!