The Brooklyn Nets have one more opportunity to make a statement early in the season as they prepare to face the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night. Despite a challenging start, the Nets have a chance to end the in-season tournament on a high note. After losing their first two NBA Cup games against the Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic, the Nets surprised many by defeating the Boston Celtics in a group play game at TD Garden, a victory that effectively knocked Boston out of contention for the knockout stage.
Going into their final group stage game, the Nets find themselves unable to advance. The 76ers, with an 0-3 record in group play, share a similar fate, meaning both teams will have less incentive for the Cup itself. Yet, players around the league acknowledge that these NBA Cup games carry a heightened sense of competitiveness. As the Nets and 76ers step onto the Barclays Center court, there will undoubtedly be an increased intensity compared to a typical late-November matchup.
Philadelphia has struggled to maintain its earlier momentum this season and is looking to find its way back into playoff contention. Though star player Joel Embiid will be sidelined and Paul George is a question mark for the game, the Nets will still have the opportunity to challenge a strong 76ers lineup led by Tyrese Maxey, which could test their mettle.
A victory against the 76ers would secure the Nets a third-place finish in their NBA Cup group and provide a much-needed boost of confidence. Such a win would put them ahead of both the Celtics and 76ers, their divisional rivals, which could have implications for future matchups against these teams.
Although the Nets are positioned as a team looking to rebuild and might benefit from a losing record, there remains a sense that they could be a formidable challenge on any given night. If they can secure a win over Philadelphia, it could set the tone for their season ahead. The Nets may not aspire to be in the thick of a play-in race yet, but embracing the role of a spoiler in the Eastern Conference could be a productive path as they develop their identity for the future.