Nets let 16-point cushion slip in Orlando, drop to 1-11
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The Brooklyn Nets squandered their biggest advantage of the season on Friday, falling to the Orlando Magic after surrendering an 11-0 run in the final minutes. Brooklyn led by 16 in the second quarter and held a 98-94 edge late in the fourth, but the collapse ended in a seven-point defeat that kept the club locked at 1-11 and tied with Indiana and Washington for the NBA’s worst record.
Claxton’s efficiency a bright spot
Center Nic Claxton entered the night averaging career highs of 15.3 points and 3.7 assists while shooting 73.6% from the free-throw line. Head coach Jordi Fernández praised the 25-year-old’s progress, calling his improved efficiency “the payoff” of sustained work. “He’s got to sustain it for 82 games, but all his work is paying off,” Fernández said.
Demin adjusting on defense
Lottery rookie Egor Demin has earned positive reviews from Fernández, who emphasized that the 19-year-old must become “proactive instead of reactive” on the defensive end. The coach cited better communication and quicker reads as the next steps in Demin’s development but added, “I’m very happy where he’s at right now and what he’s shown.”
Wolf’s development plan intact
First-round pick Danny Wolf has logged only six NBA minutes across two appearances but has turned in several strong outings for Long Island in the G League. Fernández said the organization will not accelerate the rookie’s timetable, noting that incremental progress for every young player is the priority. “If all the players accomplish what their plan is, we’re going to get a competitive team,” he said.
Source: Hoops Rumors
