Brooklyn Nets install zone defenses, could debut vs. Philadelphia 76ers

Is it a test, a pilot program, perhaps even a desperation move?  Word out of Wednesday's shootaround is that the Nets have installed some zone defenses in the past few days.  It could debut vs. the 76ers, a woeful team on offense.

Lionel Hollins says he's been teaching something new last couple of days: zone defense.

— Stefan Bondy (@nydninternets) November 26, 2014

Been meaning to ask Lionel Hollins for a while if he thought about implementing a zone defense into #Nets scheme. Asked today. Answer: Yes.

— Rod Boone (@rodboone) November 26, 2014

Lionel Hollins said the Nets have installed some zone defenses. Could be utilized as soon as tonight versus Sixers.

— Andy Vasquez (@andy_vasquez) November 26, 2014

#Nets allow 44.5 points in the paint per game, 5 worst in the league. A zone could work.

— Reed Wallach (@ReedWallach) November 26, 2014

The Nets of course have been a defensive disaster despite Hollins hopes, dreams and priorities.  In the Sixers, they will face the NBA's worst offense and so it would seem smart that the Nets coaching staff start testing the zone tonight.  There are issues, like whether Brook Lopez, as the zone's centerpiece, is up to the task of calling out switches.  Of course, Hollins could use Kevin Garnett and Mason Plumlee in that role.  We should find out in a few hours.

• Is zone defense in the Nets' future? - Devin Kharpertian - The Brooklyn Game
• Nets add zone defense to repertoire - Andy Vasquez - The Record
• Lionel Hollins has Nets working on zone defense - Stefan Bondy - New York Daily News