Brooklyn Nets grades: Nets take care of Pelicans in blowout

The Nets had many obstacles come their way against New Orleans, but in the end, they prevailed. James Harden (27 PTS, 15 ASTS, 8 REBS) had yet another masterclass and the rookies showed off and showed out in the contest.

Overall, Brooklyn outrebounded the Pelicans 44-35. Although the team allowed 12 offensive boards, it didn’t matter. New Orleans couldn’t even capture a lead throughout the whole game. As for Brooklyn, their bench also showed up, scoring 32 points in all.

Kevin Durant (12 PTS) was forced to leave the game in the second quarter after apparently injuring his left knee. There will be an MRI on the injury tomorrow morning.

As the game progressed in his absence, the Nets maintained the energy offensively although they let up a little in the third quarter defensively. They allowed 36 points in the period, marking the most points New Orleans scored in a quarter for the entire game.

In the end, the starters combined for 88 points and it was more than enough to get the victory. Brooklyn’s defense on the perimeter, holding the Pelicans to 29% accuracy from there, was key in withstanding a possible rally.

Steve Nash and his squad will be back at it on Monday when they take on the Cleveland Cavaliers.

James Harden: A

James Harden (27 PTS, 15 ASTS, 8 REBS) went off, but the turnovers were too much. He turned the ball over six times, but his shooting efficiency made up for everything, Harden went 9-of-15 from the field and 2-of-5 from downtown while also cashing in on his free throws, going 7-8 from the stripe.

Patty Mills: A+

Patty Mills (21 PTS, 3 3PM) found his rhythm as the game went on. In 29 minutes, the Australian went 7-of-13 from the field. His activity defensively was the regular, but his shooting stroke could have had a better start.

Kessler Edwards: A+

Kessler Edwards (16 PTS, 4 3PM) had a really efficient game. The rookie missed only four shots and his perimeter shooting was outstanding, going 4-of-5 from behind the arc. Defensively, he was active as well and he picked up a block to show for it.

Day'Ron Sharpe: A

Day’Ron Sharpe (12 PTS, 10 REBS) was a monster on the court on his way to securing a double-double. Sharpe missed a couple easy shots in the interior, but his shooting performance was still elite. The rookie went 6-of-14 from the floor, but just needs to focus on his finishing more. In addition, his shot creativity off the roll on an early catch needs a little more work as well.

Cam Thomas: A+

Cam Thomas (20 PTS, 9-13 FG) looks the most comfortable he has looked all season long. Not only he taking his time when creating his own shot, but he’s capitalizing off of catch and shoot opportunities. Who knows where his offensive bag can be in a couple of years.

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