Overview
- Brooklyn opened 0-5 with a league-worst defensive efficiency, and Fernández called on Nic Claxton to reassert himself as the rim-protecting anchor.
- Noah Clowney is averaging about 5.2 points on 25% shooting through five games, and the coach urged him to keep shooting while pushing for better defense.
- The Nets exercised Clowney’s 2026/27 team option at the season’s start, reinforcing their commitment to his development despite the slow opening.
- Rookies Egor Demin and Ben Saraf sat the fourth quarter of the loss to Atlanta in favor of veterans Tyrese Martin and Terance Mann, with Fernández pressing Demin to attack inside after starting 9-for-22 from three without a two-point attempt.
- Danny Wolf and Nolan Traore were sent to Long Island for more reps, and Ziaire Williams has a minor back fracture but hopes to play Sunday against the 76ers.