NEW YORK — Former Brooklyn head coach Kenny Atkinson left Barclays Center on Sunday convinced the Nets’ rebuilding effort will ultimately pay off, even after his Cleveland Cavaliers edged Brooklyn 106-102 to hand the home team its eighth straight defeat.
“You go home with those losses stacking up and it’s hard, but that’s part of a rebuild,” Atkinson said. “They drafted good talent, they have a strong coaching staff and front office. It’ll break through.”
The setback dropped Brooklyn to 15-45, a half-game behind Indiana and 1.5 games behind Sacramento in the race for the NBA’s worst record.
Nelson Makes Impact on 10-Day Deal
Forward Grant Nelson, signed to a 10-day contract last week, impressed in his first home appearance, recording 11 points, four rebounds and three blocks. The outing capped a stretch of four games in four cities over five days split between the NBA and G League.
“It’s been my dream my whole life,” Nelson said. “I know the work isn’t done—I still have a lot to improve.”
Mann Embraces Veteran Role
Terance Mann, acquired from Atlanta in July, is now the Nets’ oldest player at 29 and has taken on leadership duties for the youthful roster. “Great vets showed me how to stay positive and take care of the young guys,” Mann said. “That’s what I’m here to do.”
Minott Leaves Boston on Good Terms
After Friday’s matchup with Boston, Celtics star Jaylen Brown acknowledged that forward Josh Minott faced a difficult situation before being traded to Brooklyn at the deadline. Minott, limited by a December ankle injury, said he bears no ill will toward his former team. “I left on no bitter note,” he noted. “For those 48 minutes we’re enemies, but I had a great experience here for sure.”
Source: HoopsRumors
