The Brooklyn Nets opened their preseason last night in a 111-106 victory over the Washington Wizards, giving Kidd his first NBA win. Yes, it is preseason, but this was the first chance we got to take a look at the Nets new additions.
Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce played 12 minutes each. Pierce was in foul trouble all night, and Garnett demonstrated his rebounding and mental toughness. Andrei Kirilenko, another ‘under talked’ addition showed just how versatile he is finishing with 11 points, 5 assists, 5 rebounds and 3 steals in just 24 minutes off the bench. Returning starters Joe Johnson and Brook Lopez also played 12 minutes each, and Deron Williams sat out nursing his sore ankle.
In Minnesota, KG never really had another ‘superstar big’ to get him over the hump. Yes, he played with Paul Pierce and Ray Allen in Boston; winning his first Championship, however KG was forced to play the ‘big man’ role there, especially after trading Kendrick Perkins. KG acknowledges Brook Lopez is by far the best ‘big man’ he has ever played with. KG touched upon this during media day, and even spoke about him again during training camp in Duke. “I’ve never played with a center whose skill level is at this point. I’ve obviously played with greats, but to the point where he’s young and still hasn’t peaked yet.” After the Nets first preseason game, Garnett didn’t hide his feelings. “Just in awe a little bit. The skill level is impressive. I haven’t been around a skill level like that playing with [a center] I don’t think ever.”
There is no doubt this is a win or bust season for the Nets. Owner Mikhail Prokhorov said he wanted to bring a Championship to the Nets within 5 years of him owning the team, and he certainly has put forth a contender to do just that. It is now up to rookie Head Coach Jason Kidd and his Brooklyn Nets to deliver on Prokhorov’s promise.
Justin Lerner: PureSportsNY