Just a little news first – many of you probably saw that Terrence Williams has been recalled from D-League purgatory but will not be joining the team tonight. He should be suited up for Thursday’s game against the Mavs in Dallas.
Meanwhile, the Nets (6-15) travel to Atlanta tonight to take on the 14-8 Hawks. The Nets have lost their last three in ugly fashion, including a 25-point blowout to the Celtics at home on Sunday. Here are some things to look for.
Change is going to come? Avery Johnson reportedly worked his team hard in practice on Monday and indicated some changes in the rotation may come if the offense continues to look as awful as it has been the past week. That might mean more minutes for Troy Murphy. Personally, I’d rather see more shots for Anthony Morrow and a shorter leash for Travis Outlaw. And at 6-15, it may be time for Johnson to consider some new rotations and giving younger blood more minutes.
PG Play. With Devin Harris battling his way back from a knee injury, Jordan Farmar has become increasingly more exposed. Yes, he hits some three-pointers, but the offense has been dreadful with him running things, and his defense on opposing PGs may be just as bad. Harris needs to be close to full strength and Farmar needs to be relegated back to full back-up status.
Play all four quarters. What might have been most dispiriting about the Nets on Sunday was the team seemingly gave up after the second quarter and demonstrated little to no energy. On paper, even without Joe Johnson, the Hawks are the better team and on their home court, they could win big. The Nets need to get back to being that team that demonstrated they could hang with the big boys in the conference, even if they ultimately lose again.
