It's been a while since the Nets rose above #20 in the Power Rankings, maybe in early 2008-09 when Devin Harris and Vince Carter were dropping 30 points on alternate nights. Not since. Not that we can recall. And with fans fearing the worst (12-70 worst) and Deron Williams unable to sleep, it's hard to be optimistic.
That pessimism is reflected in the first full power rankings of the season. John Schuhmann ranks the Nets at 28th. He offers that "Williams' supporting cast is pretty awful without Brook Lopez and that the Nets' schedule is toughest early". Marc Stein goes worst case scenario noting that if things get worse, Deron Williams could leave, "So, yeah, it's panic time already".
- Power Rankings: No Surprise: Heat and Thunder Start Strong - John Schuhman - NBA.com
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NBA Basketball Power Rankings - Week 1 - Marc Stein - ESPN