So yesterday we took a look at the Knicks, today we turn our attention to Brooklyn to take a look at the surging Nets.
Nets Overview/Outlook -
The Nets got off to a nice start but hit a wall fast. A lot of people didn't like the move at the time but I was a huge supporter of the Avery Johnson firing. I'm sorry but the guy had three plus seasons and was 60-116 in those games. Say what you want, he had Deron Williams and Brook Lopez the whole time. Gerald Wallace for a lot of it and Joe Johnson for a little bit. That's a terrible record with that kind of talent.
I'm surprised they didn't make a splash with a new coach like Jerry Sloan, Phil Jackson etc but PJ Carleismo has done a great job, no doubt about it.
They're in a great position at 33-22, currently 4th in the East. But the Nets have struggled against the upper echelon of the league, especially the Heat. That will have to change soon.
Nets Most Important Player in Second Half -
I know everyone is waiting for Deron Williams to return to his Utah form but honestly I don't think it's coming. You could only wait for so long.
With that being said, Joe Johnson waited long enough. This guy with his late game performances has elevated himself into a dark horse MVP candidate.
If the Nets are going to prove that they can beat teams like the Heat, Knicks, Spurs, etc. Joe Johnson will have to continue his stellar play.
Nets Prediction -
The Nets schedule is pretty favorable from here on out. I only see four really tough games remaining on their schedule. They have two more matchup's with the Bulls, a game Sunday at home against Memphis and they travel to LA to face the Clippers near the end of the year.
After the Memphis game, the Nets have an 11 game stretch where 10 of those games should be Net victories.
Look out for that stretch and the Nets to make a serious move to the top of the East.
Final prediction the Nets climb to 2nd in the East and draw an interesting matchup with the Bucks.
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