Jordi Fernandez was given his first taste of NBA head coaching when the Brooklyn Nets were beaten 115-106 by the Los Angeles Clippers in a preseason game. Fernandez entered this role as the Nets continue their reconstruction process, with an expectation of charting a new course for the organisation. Regardless he appreciate the moments, especially that one which he uttered saying, “You’ll never forget this game.”
Game Highlights: Thomas and Simmons Shine
Cam Thomas scored 12 and Keon Johnson scored 14 points all coming off the bench. Performing for the Clippers in the first half Nets’ star James Harden also laid out 14 points. The Nets had their backs against the wall too with injuries forcing Day’Ron Sharpe out of the game making it very difficult for them to deal with the Clippers’ offense, and the likes of Norman Powell and Terance Mann.
Emphasizing Speed and Defense
As for the Nets, Fernandez’s vision for team became substantially more apparent as they secured 27 fast break points, as well as encouraging an aggressive and speedy attitude. “… ball pressure defensively, our physicality… how hard we play is going to dictate how good we’ll be.” Fernandez stated the teams significance of transition plays.
Turning the Tide
While Nets didn’t get off to a good start, getting buried by the first 12 points, they were able to get back in to the game with Ben Simmons leading the way. When Simmons returned to his position of a point center, the Nets made a 16-1 run and F gaz Johnson stepped up and did a lot of things which made Nets come close.
The Road Ahead
Nevertheless, it was clear that Jordi Fernandez was determined to improve and put together a competitive team. His method was previously approved by his former coworker Ty Lue, who remarked that Fernandez knows how to encourage and steer his players. About the Nets As the Nets keep rebuilding, everybody will be waiting to see how Fernandez shapes this squad.
