3 Key Takeaways from the Brooklyn Nets' Disappointing Loss to the Trail Blazer
Describing the Brooklyn Nets' 2024-25 season as “odd” is probably the most accurate—and diplomatic—way to capture it. They've been striving to establish a winning culture, but have often overachieved to the point where it's getting in the way of their other goal: building for the future. This has led the team in multiple directions, with inconsistent outcomes.
The Portland Trail Blazers, who share a similar story this season, have also managed to win just enough games to miss out on top-tier draft talent while showcasing promising growth from their young players. Both teams are led by score-first guards, with their respective fanbases unsure whether these players should be viewed as key building blocks or just entertainers during a rebuilding phase.
As the Nets faced off against the Blazers for the second time this season, they were confronted with a series of bumps—both literal and metaphorical. Here’s what we learned from the game:
1. Cam Thomas Needs to Reintegrate into the Offense
When you’re known for one thing—scoring—and then you’re sidelined for months, it's understandable to want to make up for lost time the moment you get back on the court. Cam Thomas did just that, taking 17 shots in just 21 minutes of play. However, in hindsight, he might have been better off easing back into the flow of the game.
Even though Thomas had missed most of the season, Portland’s defense treated him as a proven scorer, putting pressure on him in every aspect of the game. Unable to facilitate for his teammates and forcing contested shots, he ended up disrupting the offensive rhythm. The result? Brooklyn finished with 22 turnovers and only 19 assists—a far cry from the fluid offense they had shown in recent games.
While it’s clear that Thomas' rust was a factor, it’s also evident that he needs to find a way to complement the team’s offensive style moving forward. His scoring talent and improved passing this year are undeniable, but the key will be integrating his game with what has been working for Brooklyn lately.
2. Trendon Watford Continues to Shine as a Backup Point Guard
Initially thrust into the backup point guard role due to a series of trades and injuries, Trendon Watford has stepped up admirably. Since Ben Simmons’ buyout, Watford has averaged 12 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists per game.
Although Thomas' return resulted in a slight decrease in Watford’s minutes, his impact remains significant. In this game, Watford’s spark helped Brooklyn cut Portland’s lead to just nine by the end of the third quarter, contributing to a 12-4 run. While his role might fluctuate as the team gets healthier, his performance suggests he will continue to earn playing time.
3. Brooklyn’s Rebounding Effort Was Notable
Despite trailing for most of the game, Brooklyn fought hard on the boards. They finished with a +9 advantage overall, and a dominant 21-9 margin on the offensive glass. Day’Ron Sharpe had four rebounds, while Tyrese Martin and Keon Johnson each contributed as well.
Though the Nets could only translate this rebounding advantage into +8 extra points, their effort on the glass was commendable. Even though the game was an ugly loss, this effort exemplifies the kind of grit required to build a winning culture. It’s easy to give up when you’re down by 20 points, but Brooklyn kept fighting, which shows progress, even if the outcome wasn't what they hoped for.
In summary, while the loss to the Blazers wasn’t pretty, it provided some insight into areas of growth—particularly with Thomas’ reintegration, Watford’s development, and Brooklyn’s continued resilience on the boards. It may not have been the victory the Nets needed, but it’s part of the process toward building a more competitive future.
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