Andray Blatche says he hit rock bottom when he was amnestied by the Wizards after a rough season. He accepts the blame for not showing up in shape last year, and is trying to make the most of his second chance with the Nets. So far, so good.
Nets defeat Wizards 98-88
Brooklyn finally gets a look at their home team in their new arena, and it's a 98-88 victory over the shorthanded Wizards. Brook Lopez and Andray Blatche led the way, combining for 34 points and 19 rebounds from the center position.
Nets win a battle of runs to take a five point lead into the final quarter.
The Nets hold a two point lead after a closely contested first half.
Nets erase an early deficit and trail by one after the 1st quarter.
The Nets play their first ever game at Barclays Center, hosting the Wizards, who are 1-2 in the preseason and without John Wall and Nene. Discuss the game here.
President Obama's re-election campaign got a boost Monday from Jay-Z. The rapper and minority owner of the Nets is shown in both jacket and tie as well as t-shirt and Nets cap. The last image, in fact, is him looking at the camera with a Nets cap.
The Nets finished last season 29th in defense. As John Schuhmann notes, "they only avoided finishing last in defensive efficiency because the 7-59 Bobcats couldn't stop a CYO team." Now, Avery Johnson thinks he can them into the top 10. Good Luck.
At shootaround on Monday, the Nets couldn't contain their excitement to play their first game at Barclays Center against the Wizards. MarShon Brooks and Tyshawn Taylor will have to wait for another day, however.
