3 things to keep in mind about the Nets after their win streak

The Brooklyn Nets are not playing around. While the Chicago Bulls spoiled the party by snapping the Nets’ 12-game win streak on Wednesday, it is hard to deny how well the Nets have played during their recent run. It is not a good time to call them favorites to win the title quite yet. But it is fair to say that if you are a Nets fan, then be excited. As for the rest of the fanbases, be aware. The Nets appear to have found what works for them. They have become an even bigger threat to the league in the process.

The Bulls deserve their credit for playing a good game. Chicago’s athleticism and pace, pinned against Brooklyn’s flare, made it a fun game to watch. As for the results, the Bulls took full advantage while the Nets had a bad night on the road. It was routine for Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, who combined for 69 of the Nets’ 112 points. Outside the dynamic duo and Seth Curry’s 22 points, it was a quiet evening for the Nets’ supporting cast. Only four other black jerseys got points on the board with 11, 7, 2, and 1. The loss is no reason for the Nets to hit the panic button. It is, however, a good opportunity to take a second to discuss things to keep in mind about the Nets.

Is there a need to size up?

Yes and no. It is a tricky fence to sit on, given how much Nic Claxton has improved this season. But having him as the only true center for the Nets has become their downfall on multiple occasions. The Nets got blown out by the New Orleans Pelicans in their opening game this season. And one of the main factors for the loss was Claxton becoming Jonas Valanciunas’ punching bag. ESPN’s depth chart lists Ben Simmons as the second option for the center position, so the Nets don’t really have a good choice past the slender man in Claxton. The top of the league is full of giants such as Joel Embiid, Nikola Jokic, and Brook Lopez. All whose size alone becomes a problem for Brooklyn’s lone center.

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On the bright side, the Nets’ ability to shoot somewhat eliminates the need for a big. Teams are forced to go small and spread out to guard Brooklyn’s outside shooting. However, the Nets would be much better prepared for any circumstance. They don’t need to trade for an elite center like Jokic or Embiid. Just somebody who can provide a physically imposing presence in the paint. It could help them greatly in the long run.

Ben Simmons needs to score more.

The Nets did not trade for Ben Simmons so he can score single digits. He is contributing what he can to the Nets, but the odor from the rust is undeniable. Inactivity is one of the worst things that could happen to an athlete because you never know if you can fully return to your old form. And if you do, how long will it take to do so?

For what it’s worth; it is refreshing to see Simmons on the court again. His progress since his return is good– but it can be better. Due to his phobia of shooting, Simmons’ primary weapon is to attack the basket. But it has not contributed much either, as Simmons is averaging 7.9 points per game, which is about half of what he averaged as a 76er. Durant, Irving, and Simmons were advertised as the Nets’ big three. But the way Simmons is playing right now makes them look like the big two and some change. Imagine how good they would be when, and if, Simmons goes back to playing like an all-star. I believe it can happen, but it better happen sooner than later.

The Nets’ biggest threat is themselves.

Can we trust the Nets not to shoot themselves in the foot? God forbid they lose players to injuries in the middle of a rise like this. The bigger concern is controversy. Durant, Irving, and Simmons have starred in multiple dramas in the past. Now that they are playing well, there is some breathing room, but it is hard to avoid trauma when the road gets rough. In their current form, the Nets can compete against the Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, and Philadelphia 76ers. Cliche to say, but their biggest problem is themselves.

One wrong tweet from Irving, Simmons deciding not to play for mental reasons, or Durant’s size 18 game shoes could screw it up for the Nets. Cross your fingers, say your prayers, and hope none of these problems reoccur.