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After an offseason of controversy, the Brooklyn Nets were hoping to hit the ground running. However, the Nets have gotten off to a shaky, 1-4 start after Thursday night's overtime 129-125 loss to the Dallas Mavericks.
Coming into last season, Brooklyn was a landslide favorite to make it to the NBA Finals. Then adversity hit the organization in a big way. Kyrie Irving played in only 29 games after refusing to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Forward Kevin Durant dealt with injuries again. And guard James Harden was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in February.
Brooklyn looked to be falling apart this offseason after Durant had requested a trade. Since then, tensions have cooled, and the Nets were focused on the upcoming season. After three straight losses, some are wondering if Brooklyn can get back on track.
The talent of the roster has not been in doubt, but the toughness has. That's just what analyst Kendrick Perkins believes. On ESPN's "First Take," Perkins didn't hold back:
"The Brooklyn Nets should be named the Brooklyn Hostess Cupcakes, because they're creamy and they're soft in the middle."
Brooklyn Nets struggling on offense
The Brooklyn Nets came into the season with an impressive roster of firepower. With superstars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving back, the team looked dangerous. Durant and Irving have been two of the NBA's most dominant offensive players. In theory, that should have meant that the offensive side of the ball wouldn't be a problem.
Instead, it's become an issue. The team is currently tied for 16th in the league in points per game (113.0) and rank 26th in 3-point shooting (32.1%).
There's still time for this roster to find a groove. One player who has struggled is Ben Simmons. The talented wing was acquired last year from the Philadelphia 76ers in the James Harden deal. Simmons didn't make his debut last year after dealing with a back injury and mental health concerns.
It's been almost two years since Ben Simmons has played regular season games. To that point, it shouldn't be much of a surprise to see the 26-year-old have some rust. Through five games, Simmons is averaging 5.6 points, 6.2 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game.
One of the top scoring assets, Seth Curry, has also been out of the lineup. Curry has been dealing with an ankle injury and has yet to play this year. One of Brooklyn's top 3-point shooters, Curry's return will provide a big boost.
The start to the season has been disappointing for Brooklyn. The upcoming slate of games expresses some hope for the team. The Nets will face the Indiana Pacers (1-4) in two consecutive games. From there, they will play the Chicago Bulls (3-2) and Washington Wizards (3-1). If the Nets can put together a stretch of wins, it will calm things down.
Guess the Lakers players!
