Clowney’s New Mind-Set Fuels Nets’ Upswing; Updates on Highsmith, First-Rounders and Wolf
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Brooklyn forward Noah Clowney has vaulted into the best stretch of his young career after adopting a more aggressive approach over the past month and a half. During the last 16 games, the third-year pro is averaging 16.6 points while shooting 45% from the floor and close to 40% on three-pointers. He has started regularly, logging a career-high 28.1 minutes a night for a team that rebounded from an 0-7 opening to enter the playoff conversation.
Clowney Thrives in Bigger Role
Clowney said he stopped worrying about mistakes and outside perception, focusing instead on teammates and coaches who saw his off-season work. Playing alongside Michael Porter Jr. and Nic Claxton has opened the floor; in 304 shared minutes, the trio owns a +3.37 net rating, according to team tracking data.
Highsmith Back on the Court, Timeline Still Unclear
Swingman Haywood Highsmith, acquired from Miami in July, was able to take free throws Tuesday at the club’s practice facility as he rehabs from meniscus surgery on his right knee. Head coach Jordi Fernández noted that Highsmith is progressing but offered no target date for a debut after an October setback.
Structured Plan for Five First-Round Picks
Brooklyn intends for each of its five 2025 first-round selections to appear in 50-to-70 games split between the NBA roster and the Long Island Nets in the G League. Only No. 8 pick Egor Demin has yet to log G League minutes. Fernández said assignments are tied to individual benchmarks and the parent club’s immediate needs.
Wolf Returns from G League Ready to Contribute
Rookie center Danny Wolf has been the primary beneficiary of that system. After a dominant stretch with Long Island, the 7-footer is averaging 11.5 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists over his last six NBA games while hitting 44.4% from deep. His versatility has given Fernández the option to deploy larger lineups.
Source: HoopsRumors
