You are now in the backcourt a Brooklyn Nets podcast presented by Ticketmaster, recording episode ten on New Year's Eve. You will be listening to this in twenty twenty five. Me Lucas Kaplan of NETS Daily of NETS Film Focus, and Sarah Coustack, color commentator for Yes Network calls many of NETS games, many other games. We will be breaking that down, you know, all your usual NETS content.

You are now in the backcourt a Brooklyn Nets podcast presented by Ticketmaster, recording episode ten on New Year's Eve. You will be listening to this in twenty twenty five. Me Lucas Kaplan of NETS Daily of NETS Film Focus, and Sarah Coustack, color commentator for Yes Network calls many of NETS games, many other games. We will be breaking that down, you know, all your usual NETS content.

But first, before we.

But first, before we.

Bring in Sarah, we're just gonna wrap up the nuts and bolts of a trade the Brooklyn Nets made on Sunday afternoon. The team sent Dorian Finney Smith and Shake Milton to the.

Bring in Sarah, we're just gonna wrap up the nuts and bolts of a trade the Brooklyn Nets made on Sunday afternoon. The team sent Dorian Finney Smith and Shake Milton to the.

Los Angeles Lakers.

Los Angeles Lakers.

In return, they got Maxwell Lewis, a young player from Pepperdine University twenty two years old. They received D'Angelo Russell, a one time NET who is now a two time NET.

In return, they got Maxwell Lewis, a young player from Pepperdine University twenty two years old. They received D'Angelo Russell, a one time NET who is now a two time NET.

Been around the league since his first ten year here.

Been around the league since his first ten year here.

A warrior, a timberwolve, a Laker, has a ton of playoff experience, now got a beard on his face. It's been a minute, been a minute, I should say, But NETS fans certainly remember his first tenure very positively. I know I have some special memories of his time here, which Sarah and I will get into the nets. Also received three second round picks from the Lakers twenty twenty seven, twenty thirty, twenty thirty one. And really that's you know a lot of what this trade is about. They continue to expand their stash of draft capital. I believe now they have fifteen first rounders and sixteen potentially seventeen second rounders depending on a swapper too. It is the fattest draft stash in the league. Building towards the future, building towards sustainable success, as general manager Sean Marx likes to call it. You know, it's a very understandable trade. These things go down quite often.

A warrior, a timberwolve, a Laker, has a ton of playoff experience, now got a beard on his face. It's been a minute, been a minute, I should say, But NETS fans certainly remember his first tenure very positively. I know I have some special memories of his time here, which Sarah and I will get into the nets. Also received three second round picks from the Lakers twenty twenty seven, twenty thirty, twenty thirty one. And really that's you know a lot of what this trade is about. They continue to expand their stash of draft capital. I believe now they have fifteen first rounders and sixteen potentially seventeen second rounders depending on a swapper too. It is the fattest draft stash in the league. Building towards the future, building towards sustainable success, as general manager Sean Marx likes to call it. You know, it's a very understandable trade. These things go down quite often.

You know. Part of the business.

You know. Part of the business.

Is it is a little tough to say goodbye to Dorian Phinney Smith and shake Milton as it is, you know with any players that give their all to Brooklyn. Dorian Phinney Smith was a guy who only spent just under two years in Brooklyn, was acquired at the twenty twenty three trade deadline, but really made an impression in his time here. He you know, was the three and D guy that he was as advertised to be, but you know, he even did a little bit.

Is it is a little tough to say goodbye to Dorian Phinney Smith and shake Milton as it is, you know with any players that give their all to Brooklyn. Dorian Phinney Smith was a guy who only spent just under two years in Brooklyn, was acquired at the twenty twenty three trade deadline, but really made an impression in his time here. He you know, was the three and D guy that he was as advertised to be, but you know, he even did a little bit.

More than that in Brooklyn.

More than that in Brooklyn.

There were times when we highlighted on this podcast he was playing center for them, playing drop coverage, picking, picking and popping from three, guarding you know whoever his coaches asked him to every night. Personally, you know, he was a joy to talk to, always in a good mood, joking around, smile on his face. If you want to really catch up on the full story of Dodo from Portsmouth to Brooklyn was an excellent, you know documentary, not short, but you know, thirty forty minute documentary on Doe's journey from his hometown in Virginia to the NBA. It was great Brooklyn Nets content team. Shout out to them if you want to recap the Dodo experience and shake Milton, who was not here for quite as long, only played you know for two three months as a net had some great moments, including leading you know that fourth quarter comeback against the Milwaukee Bucks just a week ago. Alas the NBA trades happened, Guys come, guys leave, guys come back for a second time. Now with d' angelo Russell, we'll see what Maxwell Lewis has to offer. His NBA career has barely gotten off the ground. Yet very young guy. So that ties a bow on that. And now Sarah Kustack and I will look forward see what the next few weeks months the return of D'Angelo Russell may bring to the Brooklyn Nets. So thank you guys for listening. Happy New Years, and now, as promised, we will bring in star color commentator for Yes Network, Sarahkustack.

There were times when we highlighted on this podcast he was playing center for them, playing drop coverage, picking, picking and popping from three, guarding you know whoever his coaches asked him to every night. Personally, you know, he was a joy to talk to, always in a good mood, joking around, smile on his face. If you want to really catch up on the full story of Dodo from Portsmouth to Brooklyn was an excellent, you know documentary, not short, but you know, thirty forty minute documentary on Doe's journey from his hometown in Virginia to the NBA. It was great Brooklyn Nets content team. Shout out to them if you want to recap the Dodo experience and shake Milton, who was not here for quite as long, only played you know for two three months as a net had some great moments, including leading you know that fourth quarter comeback against the Milwaukee Bucks just a week ago. Alas the NBA trades happened, Guys come, guys leave, guys come back for a second time. Now with d' angelo Russell, we'll see what Maxwell Lewis has to offer. His NBA career has barely gotten off the ground. Yet very young guy. So that ties a bow on that. And now Sarah Kustack and I will look forward see what the next few weeks months the return of D'Angelo Russell may bring to the Brooklyn Nets. So thank you guys for listening. Happy New Years, and now, as promised, we will bring in star color commentator for Yes Network, Sarahkustack.

Sarah, how are we doing today? We're recording on New Year's Eve?

Sarah, how are we doing today? We're recording on New Year's Eve?

We are, Yeah, it'll be New Year's Day twenty twenty five when NETS fans are listening to this.

We are, Yeah, it'll be New Year's Day twenty twenty five when NETS fans are listening to this.

You can't believe it.

You can't believe it.

I am fantastic. I can't believe we are heading into year twenty twenty five. But no, I'm thrilled.

I am fantastic. I can't believe we are heading into year twenty twenty five. But no, I'm thrilled.

I'm excited.

I'm excited.

I am someone who takes the approach and like living every day like a holiday, and you know, showing up the way you want to show up on New Year's or resolution base as well.

I am someone who takes the approach and like living every day like a holiday, and you know, showing up the way you want to show up on New Year's or resolution base as well.

So I'm not a huge New Year's person, but but I'm.

So I'm not a huge New Year's person, but but I'm.

Done with it.

Done with it.

I think it's great, okay, for someone who works as often as you do. I'm frankly shocked to hear you say that you treat every day like a holiday.

I think it's great, okay, for someone who works as often as you do. I'm frankly shocked to hear you say that you treat every day like a holiday.

But we must have Well, maybe idea maybe celebrate. Maybe maybe that's not the way to put it correct.

But we must have Well, maybe idea maybe celebrate. Maybe maybe that's not the way to put it correct.

Maybe every day is or vice versa, that there are really no holidays, and we we make those celebrations when we have time the context of our schedules.

Maybe every day is or vice versa, that there are really no holidays, and we we make those celebrations when we have time the context of our schedules.

There are many definitions of optimism and apparently holiday, so I love to hear it.

There are many definitions of optimism and apparently holiday, so I love to hear it.

Obviously. I just talked about the trade the.

Obviously. I just talked about the trade the.

Nets made on Sunday saying goodbye to Dorian Finney Smith and Shake Milton saying hello to an old friend, and Indiangelo Russell on Maxwell Lewis. So that's a good starting point. We can actually push the next net where we talk about nets we want to see, you know, get their game off, improve whatever it may be, in the next week. We can start there, push it up to the beginning of the show. What nets have to you know? Step up now with the absence of Dorian and Shake, who are you looking for to kind of fill that void?

Nets made on Sunday saying goodbye to Dorian Finney Smith and Shake Milton saying hello to an old friend, and Indiangelo Russell on Maxwell Lewis. So that's a good starting point. We can actually push the next net where we talk about nets we want to see, you know, get their game off, improve whatever it may be, in the next week. We can start there, push it up to the beginning of the show. What nets have to you know? Step up now with the absence of Dorian and Shake, who are you looking for to kind of fill that void?

I think there's a handful that we've already seen.

I think there's a handful that we've already seen.

We've obviously discussed this at length, so I would point to a collective hole.

We've obviously discussed this at length, so I would point to a collective hole.

Sometimes I think.

Sometimes I think.

When players move on or lost, or you're playing without players, even injury, you name it, it is a collective push to have to fill those gaps in particular when people and players touch on different areas of a group. And so I think that leadership role should be shared and is shared. I think there'll be a heavy reliance on some of the more veteran players like a Cam Johnson, who we've seen him be that through the entirety of the season, but also a Nick Claxton, even a Jordi Fernandez was talking in his press conference after the Orlando loss about the adults and I think he said, correct me if I'm wrong, the twenty three.

When players move on or lost, or you're playing without players, even injury, you name it, it is a collective push to have to fill those gaps in particular when people and players touch on different areas of a group. And so I think that leadership role should be shared and is shared. I think there'll be a heavy reliance on some of the more veteran players like a Cam Johnson, who we've seen him be that through the entirety of the season, but also a Nick Claxton, even a Jordi Fernandez was talking in his press conference after the Orlando loss about the adults and I think he said, correct me if I'm wrong, the twenty three.

Year olds and over, twenty four and over.

Year olds and over, twenty four and over.

But but a Jalen Wilson type. You kind of go down the list of players who you would anticipate have the maturity and have the ability to continue to lead by example, also with their voices, and also just playing the way that you want to see on both sides of the floor. And as we know, it's not always about it makes and misses of shots. It's it's not always about being perfect, but it's about making sure you're bringing the re requisite sense of urgency, sense of purpose on each and every possession. I think that's a big part of what you'll look for as a season continues. But I do think if you're pointing to one that I'm excited to watch and how he really gathers things.

But but a Jalen Wilson type. You kind of go down the list of players who you would anticipate have the maturity and have the ability to continue to lead by example, also with their voices, and also just playing the way that you want to see on both sides of the floor. And as we know, it's not always about it makes and misses of shots. It's it's not always about being perfect, but it's about making sure you're bringing the re requisite sense of urgency, sense of purpose on each and every possession. I think that's a big part of what you'll look for as a season continues. But I do think if you're pointing to one that I'm excited to watch and how he really gathers things.

It would be Nick Claxton.

It would be Nick Claxton.

Okay, that's an interesting point of reference, just because Nick doesn't play either of those positions, you know, if you want to think about that. But I do like that you went with almost the more intangibles, the leadership qualities, because clearly that's what head coach Jordi Fernandez has prioritized in a lot of his decision making. You know, I think bringing that energy, that leadership, that fight is you know why a guy like Keon Johnson has jumped into the starting lineup despite the shot not going in as frequently from three point land as it did when he was coming off the bench. So despite all that, you know that dip in percentages, he's starting because you can see he's bringing that energy every night and that seems to be what Jordy you know, really prioritizes, and as he should, you know, in a year when it's about finding the next nets, setting a culture, I think that makes a lot of sense.

Okay, that's an interesting point of reference, just because Nick doesn't play either of those positions, you know, if you want to think about that. But I do like that you went with almost the more intangibles, the leadership qualities, because clearly that's what head coach Jordi Fernandez has prioritized in a lot of his decision making. You know, I think bringing that energy, that leadership, that fight is you know why a guy like Keon Johnson has jumped into the starting lineup despite the shot not going in as frequently from three point land as it did when he was coming off the bench. So despite all that, you know that dip in percentages, he's starting because you can see he's bringing that energy every night and that seems to be what Jordy you know, really prioritizes, and as he should, you know, in a year when it's about finding the next nets, setting a culture, I think that makes a lot of sense.

You know, what does that look like for you?

You know, what does that look like for you?

From from everybody, but also just from Nick, you know there's some specific areas you want to see in the next week or so.

From from everybody, but also just from Nick, you know there's some specific areas you want to see in the next week or so.

I think to me, it's more of a mentality, and you pointed to it even though players you're not a one for one in terms of positions.

I think to me, it's more of a mentality, and you pointed to it even though players you're not a one for one in terms of positions.

I think now you look at.

I think now you look at.

The league across the board and it is very positionless and a lot of how teams play. We even saw this in the shift of the way this team played with Dennis Shruter running the show as opposed to Ben Simmons, And I would point to Bed as being another one of those leadership pushers in how you're playing. But the style only change a little bit, and in the concepts of philosophy, you know, the foundation does not. But I think just in terms of the way in which you're playing, and it also may shift as well, pending what things look like with Dangel Russell. And we saw the team get away more so from the heavy pick and roll when Shooter left, and a lot more DH knows, a lot more off ball movement, a lot more actions and screening offs of all. Well, Diezel Russell is a pick and role player and so that's going to be a major part of that and how he'll be able to play on and off the ball, So you can kind of go down.

The league across the board and it is very positionless and a lot of how teams play. We even saw this in the shift of the way this team played with Dennis Shruter running the show as opposed to Ben Simmons, And I would point to Bed as being another one of those leadership pushers in how you're playing. But the style only change a little bit, and in the concepts of philosophy, you know, the foundation does not. But I think just in terms of the way in which you're playing, and it also may shift as well, pending what things look like with Dangel Russell. And we saw the team get away more so from the heavy pick and roll when Shooter left, and a lot more DH knows, a lot more off ball movement, a lot more actions and screening offs of all. Well, Diezel Russell is a pick and role player and so that's going to be a major part of that and how he'll be able to play on and off the ball, So you can kind of go down.

The list of certain characteristics.

The list of certain characteristics.

But that's where I think Nick is a player who's spoken very honestly, which you appreciate. I think he always has about how he's evaluated what he's done in his performance to this point in a season. But more of it for Nick, and sometimes it's hard. It's hard for a player who is a five, who is a center. You know you're not handling the ball a ton in the same type of way. But we've seen the offense be able to be initiated through him more. And I think for him a lot of it too is just his ability to rip a rebounded push and how he uses the versatility of the skills. But where I care most about is on the defensive side of things, and that's where when you lose a player like Dorrian Finney Smith, you need to fortifyve things.

But that's where I think Nick is a player who's spoken very honestly, which you appreciate. I think he always has about how he's evaluated what he's done in his performance to this point in a season. But more of it for Nick, and sometimes it's hard. It's hard for a player who is a five, who is a center. You know you're not handling the ball a ton in the same type of way. But we've seen the offense be able to be initiated through him more. And I think for him a lot of it too is just his ability to rip a rebounded push and how he uses the versatility of the skills. But where I care most about is on the defensive side of things, and that's where when you lose a player like Dorrian Finney Smith, you need to fortifyve things.

To me at that end of the floor first.

To me at that end of the floor first.

And Nick is a player who's talked about wanting to be not only in the discussion, but be defensive player of the year. Well, where does that start and what does that look like?

And Nick is a player who's talked about wanting to be not only in the discussion, but be defensive player of the year. Well, where does that start and what does that look like?

And how are you not only one.

And how are you not only one.

Of those players who has switchability and really relishes and being able to guard multiple positions and protect the rent as well. But how does that look like in your communication with your teammates? How does that look when you are talking about trying to truly anchor a defense?

Of those players who has switchability and really relishes and being able to guard multiple positions and protect the rent as well. But how does that look like in your communication with your teammates? How does that look when you are talking about trying to truly anchor a defense?

And that's what.

And that's what.

I'm excited to see because I think he has it in him. It's just about continuing to take those steps and this Nate provide the opportunity and maybe some of the void that he can now feel in that type of role.

I'm excited to see because I think he has it in him. It's just about continuing to take those steps and this Nate provide the opportunity and maybe some of the void that he can now feel in that type of role.

Definitely, and you trust Nick to do it just because a you mentioned him speaking very honestly about his performance, he said he wasn't totally satisfied with how his game has gone this year. But again, you know, this is a guy who's transformed from second round draft pick into you know, one hundred million dollar contract worthy player in this of five six years, still in his bed mid to early twenties. So if you know, you trust anyone on this NETS roster, he's a veteran by now, which is crazy to say as someone you know who's been following his whole career, but he is definitely the lynchpin of their defense. I look at a guy like Noah Clowney, who I'm really excited to talk about. You know, obviously, with Shake's departure, that's probably more ball handling reps for Keon Johnson. I know camp Thomas has returned and will touch on that more decision making for him. But Noah Clowney, who I don't want to speculate too much, might get some starts at the four next to Nick now in Dorian's absence, maybe comes off the bench, who knows, but fills a lot of the same spaces on the court, just in terms of making rotations at the rim, you know, behind Nick Claxton spotting up from three, and he's been on fire for a couple of weeks.

Definitely, and you trust Nick to do it just because a you mentioned him speaking very honestly about his performance, he said he wasn't totally satisfied with how his game has gone this year. But again, you know, this is a guy who's transformed from second round draft pick into you know, one hundred million dollar contract worthy player in this of five six years, still in his bed mid to early twenties. So if you know, you trust anyone on this NETS roster, he's a veteran by now, which is crazy to say as someone you know who's been following his whole career, but he is definitely the lynchpin of their defense. I look at a guy like Noah Clowney, who I'm really excited to talk about. You know, obviously, with Shake's departure, that's probably more ball handling reps for Keon Johnson. I know camp Thomas has returned and will touch on that more decision making for him. But Noah Clowney, who I don't want to speculate too much, might get some starts at the four next to Nick now in Dorian's absence, maybe comes off the bench, who knows, but fills a lot of the same spaces on the court, just in terms of making rotations at the rim, you know, behind Nick Claxton spotting up from three, and he's been on fire for a couple of weeks.

Now for three years, had some of his highest.

Now for three years, had some of his highest.

Scoring games of his career, and I'm really excited about his development. And I think think the three point shooting has is not just the main reason or maybe the main thing on the box score that you look at and say, oh wow, his production's taken leap, But to me, it seems like that's come along with just you know, one of those second classic second year stories where he just seems a little bit more comfortable in his role as a true full time NBA player. He still hasn't really played a season's worth of games yet, because if you recall, you know, all those great things he did in his rookie season came in March and April, so he's not even like a year into being a full time NBA player. Have you seen him get, aside from the three point shot, a little more at ease, comfortable aware on the court.

Scoring games of his career, and I'm really excited about his development. And I think think the three point shooting has is not just the main reason or maybe the main thing on the box score that you look at and say, oh wow, his production's taken leap, But to me, it seems like that's come along with just you know, one of those second classic second year stories where he just seems a little bit more comfortable in his role as a true full time NBA player. He still hasn't really played a season's worth of games yet, because if you recall, you know, all those great things he did in his rookie season came in March and April, so he's not even like a year into being a full time NBA player. Have you seen him get, aside from the three point shot, a little more at ease, comfortable aware on the court.

I think he has.

I think he has.

I would also say for as well as he's shooting the three pointer, and I know he's got a green light as as do the rest of the team with how Jordi Fernandez wants them to play. To me, his despite still shooting at a high volume of three, his shot selection has improved even over the small sample size and the course at the start of this year. I feel like it's still a quick trigger, but it is a more patient one and one that is surveying the floor more on the offensive side. I think to just his continued ability to grow in when you run off the three point line, because it is different too, when you got such a high release point and you're a taller player, you can probably get off a lot of shots that that you know others cannot. But still getting to the basket, penetrating and paint, working that drive and kick game. But defensively, I think that is a major part of remembering that he's what twenty years old, and so picking up NBA style defenses. How you're able to continue to adapt to seeing different players and learning tendencies and nuance of film study and what that looks like game by game, team by team, and the more then you're seeing teams. What I love to see is Okay, now you've seen team, will look ahead to this week, but for example Milwaukee multiple times, well, how does that change in what you understand? And every team is going to approach things different or just potentially have a different look and how how they're going to play you game by game, matchup by matchup, and who is playing based on personnel. But I think those are the small tweaks and continuing to try and lessen some of those breakdowns defensively or mental mistakes or lapses or lack of understanding of where you're supposed to be. And I do think over the course of and sometimes that does come with just thinks slowing down a little bit because you mentally have a better understanding. And I think we have seen that from him, but they're still I mean, this guy's the limit the amount that he has to grow and to improve.

I would also say for as well as he's shooting the three pointer, and I know he's got a green light as as do the rest of the team with how Jordi Fernandez wants them to play. To me, his despite still shooting at a high volume of three, his shot selection has improved even over the small sample size and the course at the start of this year. I feel like it's still a quick trigger, but it is a more patient one and one that is surveying the floor more on the offensive side. I think to just his continued ability to grow in when you run off the three point line, because it is different too, when you got such a high release point and you're a taller player, you can probably get off a lot of shots that that you know others cannot. But still getting to the basket, penetrating and paint, working that drive and kick game. But defensively, I think that is a major part of remembering that he's what twenty years old, and so picking up NBA style defenses. How you're able to continue to adapt to seeing different players and learning tendencies and nuance of film study and what that looks like game by game, team by team, and the more then you're seeing teams. What I love to see is Okay, now you've seen team, will look ahead to this week, but for example Milwaukee multiple times, well, how does that change in what you understand? And every team is going to approach things different or just potentially have a different look and how how they're going to play you game by game, matchup by matchup, and who is playing based on personnel. But I think those are the small tweaks and continuing to try and lessen some of those breakdowns defensively or mental mistakes or lapses or lack of understanding of where you're supposed to be. And I do think over the course of and sometimes that does come with just thinks slowing down a little bit because you mentally have a better understanding. And I think we have seen that from him, but they're still I mean, this guy's the limit the amount that he has to grow and to improve.

You want to talk about a player that.

You want to talk about a player that.

You can get excited about, he absolutely is one of those.

You can get excited about, he absolutely is one of those.

I've loved his development this season, just because it is not always linear, Like he had a really strong start and to the season last year, and then he comes into this year and he's maybe not playing as many minutes and the shot maybe isn't going in quite as much.

I've loved his development this season, just because it is not always linear, Like he had a really strong start and to the season last year, and then he comes into this year and he's maybe not playing as many minutes and the shot maybe isn't going in quite as much.

But since we.

But since we.

Recorded last it took a little holiday break for one episode, they played six games. He scored double digits in five to six games, and he's made a ton of defensive plays.

Recorded last it took a little holiday break for one episode, they played six games. He scored double digits in five to six games, and he's made a ton of defensive plays.

Yes, I have to put together a compilation of him.

Yes, I have to put together a compilation of him.

I don't know if this is something you've noticed, but as like the transition defender, backpedaling, contesting at the rim, I feel like he's made a bunch of plays in those two on one, you know, one on one open court situations, and like I said, double digit scoring five of the last six games. I really think he is the type of athlete that has really special and intriguing and probably why the NETS drafted him.

I don't know if this is something you've noticed, but as like the transition defender, backpedaling, contesting at the rim, I feel like he's made a bunch of plays in those two on one, you know, one on one open court situations, and like I said, double digit scoring five of the last six games. I really think he is the type of athlete that has really special and intriguing and probably why the NETS drafted him.

Movement skills at six '.

Movement skills at six '.

Ten with super long arms like wiry, but can fit through small spaces. He's had a ton of really cool, you know, moves to the basket attacking closeouts last season, especially in the G League. And now, what I really like about him taking a lot of threes, taking a lot of shots is that he's going to be drawing these closeouts and having hopefully more opportunities.

Ten with super long arms like wiry, but can fit through small spaces. He's had a ton of really cool, you know, moves to the basket attacking closeouts last season, especially in the G League. And now, what I really like about him taking a lot of threes, taking a lot of shots is that he's going to be drawing these closeouts and having hopefully more opportunities.

To put the ball on the deck and make decisions.

To put the ball on the deck and make decisions.

He had a really cool pass to Nick Laxton off a drive in Milwaukee that led to a dunk. But right now he's above thirty nine percent from three this season on like thirteen three point attempts per one hundred possessions. For some context, that is like the career numbers of like Malik Beasley, you know, more volume and efficiency than Tim Hardaway Junior. I don't know why. I guess I'm focusing on the pistons, but just for context, I know it's a small sample size. Those are like capital as shooter numbers fly out run him off the line, and so I think if those numbers even close to continue, teams are going to have to do that and then you're going to see a little bit more of his game develop. But I do like that I can kind of see Jordy Fernandez and the staff building his game out piece by piece. Okay, you're gonna have to draw a lot of closeouts because you have these cool movement skills and you can put it on the floor and evade people. Now you're gonna be drawing those closeouts. So I'm super excited to watch him the rest of the season, maybe get a little more minutes, an opportunity, you know, in Dorian's place. But that's the guy I'm looking at, and I guess now, just to take it to the big picture, I did mention the Nets have played six games since Sarah and I last recorded. A ton of stuff happened aside from the trade, you know, camp Thomas returned.

He had a really cool pass to Nick Laxton off a drive in Milwaukee that led to a dunk. But right now he's above thirty nine percent from three this season on like thirteen three point attempts per one hundred possessions. For some context, that is like the career numbers of like Malik Beasley, you know, more volume and efficiency than Tim Hardaway Junior. I don't know why. I guess I'm focusing on the pistons, but just for context, I know it's a small sample size. Those are like capital as shooter numbers fly out run him off the line, and so I think if those numbers even close to continue, teams are going to have to do that and then you're going to see a little bit more of his game develop. But I do like that I can kind of see Jordy Fernandez and the staff building his game out piece by piece. Okay, you're gonna have to draw a lot of closeouts because you have these cool movement skills and you can put it on the floor and evade people. Now you're gonna be drawing those closeouts. So I'm super excited to watch him the rest of the season, maybe get a little more minutes, an opportunity, you know, in Dorian's place. But that's the guy I'm looking at, and I guess now, just to take it to the big picture, I did mention the Nets have played six games since Sarah and I last recorded. A ton of stuff happened aside from the trade, you know, camp Thomas returned.

The Nets won.

The Nets won.

Two of those games, and it seemed like they were headed for a win against the Orlando Magic, in which they really played well for three quarters and blew a late lead. Camp Thomas game winning attempt rimmed off back rim.

Two of those games, and it seemed like they were headed for a win against the Orlando Magic, in which they really played well for three quarters and blew a late lead. Camp Thomas game winning attempt rimmed off back rim.

But I guess that's a good place to start.

But I guess that's a good place to start.

What have you seen from the Nets offense when it's been clicking? And what have you seen from the Nets offense when it maybe hasn't been Because that was really you know, they only scored four points in the last seven minutes of that Orlando game. And then maybe as a bonus question, how does the return of Cam Thomas, who looked pretty good in that Magic game, maybe alleviate some of this stuff.

What have you seen from the Nets offense when it's been clicking? And what have you seen from the Nets offense when it maybe hasn't been Because that was really you know, they only scored four points in the last seven minutes of that Orlando game. And then maybe as a bonus question, how does the return of Cam Thomas, who looked pretty good in that Magic game, maybe alleviate some of this stuff.

Let's start with the offense in a couple disclaimers which you know, I know are not excuses, and Jordy Fernandez certainly wasn't taking them postgame. But despite all the injuries that they have endured in the Orlando Magic, they are one of the top defenses and have been in the league under Jamal Mosley. How they've played just the disposition of this group based on their personnel, so they do have stretches where they can stagnate an offense and mostly in particular give himototic credit of understanding how as a course of a game continues on. So we see that we have seen that Orlando Magic team as of late, again, regardless of the personnel that has been available to them, has some huge comebacks. So all of those things are characteristic. One, you got to give some credit to the Magic. On the flip side of things, absolutely for the nets and you can't blow a lead like that. That's certainly something that you need to find ways to work through not making shots. And I think that'll be a growth point of this group of how are you playing and what are you doing when shots are not going down? And I think we've seen ebbs and flows of that through this season of still getting stops at the other end.

Let's start with the offense in a couple disclaimers which you know, I know are not excuses, and Jordy Fernandez certainly wasn't taking them postgame. But despite all the injuries that they have endured in the Orlando Magic, they are one of the top defenses and have been in the league under Jamal Mosley. How they've played just the disposition of this group based on their personnel, so they do have stretches where they can stagnate an offense and mostly in particular give himototic credit of understanding how as a course of a game continues on. So we see that we have seen that Orlando Magic team as of late, again, regardless of the personnel that has been available to them, has some huge comebacks. So all of those things are characteristic. One, you got to give some credit to the Magic. On the flip side of things, absolutely for the nets and you can't blow a lead like that. That's certainly something that you need to find ways to work through not making shots. And I think that'll be a growth point of this group of how are you playing and what are you doing when shots are not going down? And I think we've seen ebbs and flows of that through this season of still getting stops at the other end.

But the one thing about missing shots is.

But the one thing about missing shots is.

That it very much stresses your defense, and it stresses your transit to the defense, no question, as you know, as we all know, as all fans of basketball. No, it's not just about the points that you're dead when shots go in. It goes hand in hand and allowing a team to get out and run and be more fluid into their offense. A's the same reason the Nets always care about getting stops at the defensive end. And I think it's just in both ways the transition defense improving in that area that communications all of those things. And again, it is different when you're playing with different players, you have new players in and whether it's the loss of players so the re addition of Cam Thomas, you name it, but also just not allowing that to mentally, uh see you at the other end of the floor. And that's this thing that's easier said than done, but I do think so much changes in their game when their three point shots are not falling, and Lucas, that's where I think you just you try to mitigate it in ways of all those first much as I we've been raving about the shooting of Noah Clowney or for others, And that's why I think we often point to Cam Johnson with his understanding of a veteran present if.

That it very much stresses your defense, and it stresses your transit to the defense, no question, as you know, as we all know, as all fans of basketball. No, it's not just about the points that you're dead when shots go in. It goes hand in hand and allowing a team to get out and run and be more fluid into their offense. A's the same reason the Nets always care about getting stops at the defensive end. And I think it's just in both ways the transition defense improving in that area that communications all of those things. And again, it is different when you're playing with different players, you have new players in and whether it's the loss of players so the re addition of Cam Thomas, you name it, but also just not allowing that to mentally, uh see you at the other end of the floor. And that's this thing that's easier said than done, but I do think so much changes in their game when their three point shots are not falling, and Lucas, that's where I think you just you try to mitigate it in ways of all those first much as I we've been raving about the shooting of Noah Clowney or for others, And that's why I think we often point to Cam Johnson with his understanding of a veteran present if.

He's still gonna take those shows you're still taking. If you're shooters and everyone shooters.

He's still gonna take those shows you're still taking. If you're shooters and everyone shooters.

You're gonna be taking good looks. But there may be an instance that you feel, you know what, I've missed a couple three point shots. I want to try and drive get to the basket, see one go through, or work my mid range game, or try and get myself to the line to get things going a little bit.

You're gonna be taking good looks. But there may be an instance that you feel, you know what, I've missed a couple three point shots. I want to try and drive get to the basket, see one go through, or work my mid range game, or try and get myself to the line to get things going a little bit.

And I think the group can do that in a more improved way as a whole. And a lot of that is well.

And I think the group can do that in a more improved way as a whole. And a lot of that is well.

Yeah, gol, yeah, I mean, but I think that like that to me is the one thing that always stands out when they go through stretches where shots aren't falling in by nature, then the offense becomes a little bit more standing around or a little bit more quick.

Yeah, gol, yeah, I mean, but I think that like that to me is the one thing that always stands out when they go through stretches where shots aren't falling in by nature, then the offense becomes a little bit more standing around or a little bit more quick.

Shoot.

Shoot.

Hey that fans dunks, dimes and no looks are great on TV, but nothing compares to catching them irl. And that starts with buying tickets a ticketmaster, the official ticket marketplace of the Nets in the NBA. Ticketmaster gets you to the game so you can catch every highlight in person, from seeing your favorite Nets stars up close to hearing the squeak of the sneakers on the hardwood. Put that jersey collection to use and get tickets a ticketmaster. There's no better brag than saying you saw it live, see your courtside, Brooklyn.

Hey that fans dunks, dimes and no looks are great on TV, but nothing compares to catching them irl. And that starts with buying tickets a ticketmaster, the official ticket marketplace of the Nets in the NBA. Ticketmaster gets you to the game so you can catch every highlight in person, from seeing your favorite Nets stars up close to hearing the squeak of the sneakers on the hardwood. Put that jersey collection to use and get tickets a ticketmaster. There's no better brag than saying you saw it live, see your courtside, Brooklyn.

You have to, you know, win the three point battle in today's NBA. Really, it's just a simple math game. And they are good shots for the Nets, who have more than cape bull shooters, as we saw in the first part of the year. But there is a difference between kind of you know, understanding the assignment so to speak, and getting those shots up.

You have to, you know, win the three point battle in today's NBA. Really, it's just a simple math game. And they are good shots for the Nets, who have more than cape bull shooters, as we saw in the first part of the year. But there is a difference between kind of you know, understanding the assignment so to speak, and getting those shots up.

As the coaching staff tells you to do.

As the coaching staff tells you to do.

And then that sort of veteran, very learned experience of okay, let me maybe be a little more aggressive in attacking this close out and draw foul and get to the rim and knowing, you know, when the game situation and when the game flow and the momentum calls for. That is not something that players walk into the NBA with because you're trying to follow the assignment. You're trying to do what the coach tells out and you're trying to get up the threes. And frankly, when the Nets have gotten up to the threes, it's worked, So why would you go away from that? But that kind of veteran understanding of Okay, we need to settle us down right now, just on this possession, on this possession or two is a tough skill to master when things are happening so fast, and that's, you know, something that the Nets have to learn as a young team and you're one of this thing with a new coach. However, there have been improvements in games, you know, it's not like they lost every game since the last time we potted. For example, the fouling, the physical how to be physical without fouling. That was a huge point, you know, of emphasis in the first part of the year. Over the last two weeks, the Nets are third in offensive rebounding per cleaning the glass. They are league average in getting to the line on offense, and then they are above average on defensively rebounding and above average in preventing free throws.

And then that sort of veteran, very learned experience of okay, let me maybe be a little more aggressive in attacking this close out and draw foul and get to the rim and knowing, you know, when the game situation and when the game flow and the momentum calls for. That is not something that players walk into the NBA with because you're trying to follow the assignment. You're trying to do what the coach tells out and you're trying to get up the threes. And frankly, when the Nets have gotten up to the threes, it's worked, So why would you go away from that? But that kind of veteran understanding of Okay, we need to settle us down right now, just on this possession, on this possession or two is a tough skill to master when things are happening so fast, and that's, you know, something that the Nets have to learn as a young team and you're one of this thing with a new coach. However, there have been improvements in games, you know, it's not like they lost every game since the last time we potted. For example, the fouling, the physical how to be physical without fouling. That was a huge point, you know, of emphasis in the first part of the year. Over the last two weeks, the Nets are third in offensive rebounding per cleaning the glass. They are league average in getting to the line on offense, and then they are above average on defensively rebounding and above average in preventing free throws.

So over the last two weeks.

So over the last two weeks.

All the numbers indicate that they've been a very physical team and they've won the foul battle and that was not at all the case a month ago, and frankly, it was costing them some games. So these improvements don't always, like I said, they're not linear. You know, they're going to improve in some areas and then fall off in another area. But to me, the defense, the physicality, those have been some positives over the last two weeks, and it's just about mastering those little you know, rhythmic game flow, you know, situations that aren't you know, kind of the basics going above and beyond. And that's probably why, you know, you opened with all this leadership talk in absence of Dori and Phinney Smith, you know, to bring it full circle. Jordy Fernandez talked about needing adults in the room, needing the guys that are over twenty three to lead them in these situations. And you know, it's like the skill of winning is kind of how I look at it.

All the numbers indicate that they've been a very physical team and they've won the foul battle and that was not at all the case a month ago, and frankly, it was costing them some games. So these improvements don't always, like I said, they're not linear. You know, they're going to improve in some areas and then fall off in another area. But to me, the defense, the physicality, those have been some positives over the last two weeks, and it's just about mastering those little you know, rhythmic game flow, you know, situations that aren't you know, kind of the basics going above and beyond. And that's probably why, you know, you opened with all this leadership talk in absence of Dori and Phinney Smith, you know, to bring it full circle. Jordy Fernandez talked about needing adults in the room, needing the guys that are over twenty three to lead them in these situations. And you know, it's like the skill of winning is kind of how I look at it.

You nailed it, all of it and all of that, and thank you for tying it in a bow. And it is to just having players that can sell everyone down. But the last thing I'll say, which you I felt was great points in the numbers, like offensive rebounding, that if you're missing shots, it presents you more opportunity. And I know there's a balance between getting back in transition defense and attacking the rim, but we've seen the Nets be really good at that, and sometimes it's just the timeliness, the timeliness coming up with a loose ball, the timeliness coming away with a deflection and getting a really a tough, disjointed offensive possession for your opponent. That feels like it shifts the momentum. And there is no question the basketball any it's a momentum game. It's a field game. It's an energy game. And when you make plays or have plays that sometimes sucks a little.

You nailed it, all of it and all of that, and thank you for tying it in a bow. And it is to just having players that can sell everyone down. But the last thing I'll say, which you I felt was great points in the numbers, like offensive rebounding, that if you're missing shots, it presents you more opportunity. And I know there's a balance between getting back in transition defense and attacking the rim, but we've seen the Nets be really good at that, and sometimes it's just the timeliness, the timeliness coming up with a loose ball, the timeliness coming away with a deflection and getting a really a tough, disjointed offensive possession for your opponent. That feels like it shifts the momentum. And there is no question the basketball any it's a momentum game. It's a field game. It's an energy game. And when you make plays or have plays that sometimes sucks a little.

Life out of a team.

Life out of a team.

And you see that on both sides that that isn't just shot making. That's a lot of little things that become the big things.

And you see that on both sides that that isn't just shot making. That's a lot of little things that become the big things.

Yeah, definitely, And it's not again not like the Nets haven't done it.

Yeah, definitely, And it's not again not like the Nets haven't done it.

I think that game in Milwaukee where they.

I think that game in Milwaukee where they.

Pulled out a tough close win where the lead shrunk and then they built it back up and they had to come back against a veteran team. Was super impressive. And you know they didn't have Dorian phony Smith in No. One and that is going to be kind of the model. It's not going to be every night, but you know they can do it. They've shown they can do it. It'll happen again.

Pulled out a tough close win where the lead shrunk and then they built it back up and they had to come back against a veteran team. Was super impressive. And you know they didn't have Dorian phony Smith in No. One and that is going to be kind of the model. It's not going to be every night, but you know they can do it. They've shown they can do it. It'll happen again.

So the last thing I'll say on that, which you're correct like and I am such a big believer in this. In the NBA, in anything you're doing, it is all about learned experiences.

So the last thing I'll say on that, which you're correct like and I am such a big believer in this. In the NBA, in anything you're doing, it is all about learned experiences.

So what habits are.

So what habits are.

You creating now that it may end up in a loss, or it may end up in a botch, whatever it is, But can you make that be better for you next time?

You creating now that it may end up in a loss, or it may end up in a botch, whatever it is, But can you make that be better for you next time?

And that's where I think the focus has got.

And that's where I think the focus has got.

To be just both individually but collectibly with this group.

To be just both individually but collectibly with this group.

Yeah, Free and even a guy like camp Thomas who did have a great debut, you kind or not a debut, but a return to action. Cam probably had a better first half, definitely had a better first half shooting the ball than he.

Yeah, Free and even a guy like camp Thomas who did have a great debut, you kind or not a debut, but a return to action. Cam probably had a better first half, definitely had a better first half shooting the ball than he.

Did in the second half. Maybe the legs went a.

Did in the second half. Maybe the legs went a.

Little bit I also thought his decision making was a little crisper in the first half.

Little bit I also thought his decision making was a little crisper in the first half.

I think it's easy.

I think it's easy.

I think he had five assists in the first half and maybe one assist in the second half, but in general, Orlando was a little bit more aggressive with him in the second half, and it may be took him a minute to readjust I think learned experiences even for guys that have kind of gone through it now. Not that camp Thomas is, you know, a super veteran, but he's had some defensive attention on him for a while. He's a guy I looked at to steady the offense. He made a great The one assist he did have in the second half was a fantastic look ahead, get ahead pass and transition that led to a layup. For a team that needs to be better in transition offense, that was a great sign. So in that department, you know, CT is definitely a guy that is gonna have a lot on his plate, and I'm excited to watch him maybe try to bring some not just scoring as we know he can do, but veteran leadership and play making in certain spots and adjusting the coverages. And he's gonna have to do it, you know, for this offense to keep up for the next you know, a week or so, so he could also be a next.

I think he had five assists in the first half and maybe one assist in the second half, but in general, Orlando was a little bit more aggressive with him in the second half, and it may be took him a minute to readjust I think learned experiences even for guys that have kind of gone through it now. Not that camp Thomas is, you know, a super veteran, but he's had some defensive attention on him for a while. He's a guy I looked at to steady the offense. He made a great The one assist he did have in the second half was a fantastic look ahead, get ahead pass and transition that led to a layup. For a team that needs to be better in transition offense, that was a great sign. So in that department, you know, CT is definitely a guy that is gonna have a lot on his plate, and I'm excited to watch him maybe try to bring some not just scoring as we know he can do, but veteran leadership and play making in certain spots and adjusting the coverages. And he's gonna have to do it, you know, for this offense to keep up for the next you know, a week or so, so he could also be a next.

Net that we're watching.

Net that we're watching.

But now I want to bring it all the way back to the positives what we saw in the last two weeks. We have a big sample size gonna do Brooklyn's Finest. Guys that we want to out for their efforts. Who who is your Brooklyn? Who are you giving your Brooklyn's Finest award too? Over these last two weeks? Who's really impressed you?

But now I want to bring it all the way back to the positives what we saw in the last two weeks. We have a big sample size gonna do Brooklyn's Finest. Guys that we want to out for their efforts. Who who is your Brooklyn? Who are you giving your Brooklyn's Finest award too? Over these last two weeks? Who's really impressed you?

I'll be brief since we've already touched on him quite a bit, but my Brooklyn's Finest was Noah Clowny. I just think how he's played offensively, the improvements he's shown defensively, the growth of where he's been. I just think he's someone to keep an eye on. And maybe in terms of, you know, who's been the best, we'll probably across the board. Everyone has made different contributions. But to me, there, as we have discussed at length already, there's been a very visible difference in how you continue to see him play, the comfort that he has, So he was the guy that I had on my mind in terms of Brooklyn's finess.

I'll be brief since we've already touched on him quite a bit, but my Brooklyn's Finest was Noah Clowny. I just think how he's played offensively, the improvements he's shown defensively, the growth of where he's been. I just think he's someone to keep an eye on. And maybe in terms of, you know, who's been the best, we'll probably across the board. Everyone has made different contributions. But to me, there, as we have discussed at length already, there's been a very visible difference in how you continue to see him play, the comfort that he has, So he was the guy that I had on my mind in terms of Brooklyn's finess.

So for the course of the past a little bit.

So for the course of the past a little bit.

Yeah, I think I have said all I need to about Noah clowns in this episode, but you know, no doubt he'll give us more in the future.

Yeah, I think I have said all I need to about Noah clowns in this episode, but you know, no doubt he'll give us more in the future.

I could have gone a couple ways here.

I could have gone a couple ways here.

I want to give a quick shout out to Ben Simmons, who we talked about, you know, needing to get down hill more, needing to exert a little bit more force at the rim, and I really think he has over the past two weeks. And you've seen the benefits for Brooklyn's offense. Keon Johnson same thing, even though he hasn't shot the ball as well, he's had some really nice plays. But I will go again an opportunity to talk about Cam Johnson.

I want to give a quick shout out to Ben Simmons, who we talked about, you know, needing to get down hill more, needing to exert a little bit more force at the rim, and I really think he has over the past two weeks. And you've seen the benefits for Brooklyn's offense. Keon Johnson same thing, even though he hasn't shot the ball as well, he's had some really nice plays. But I will go again an opportunity to talk about Cam Johnson.

Oh yeah, you got to.

Oh yeah, you got to.

How can you not?

How can you not?

You know, he just continues to get better and respond to increased defensive attention and challenges, and then he conquers them or has great games against them, and you know that const constitutes progress. Against the Utah Jazz, it was probably one of his worst games of the season a couple weeks ago. They threw two on the ball at him every possession. He had a few turnovers, he didn't shoot well. He didn't really get to his spots, and that's understandable. We talked about this with Cam Thomas last season when teams started trapping and doubling him.

You know, he just continues to get better and respond to increased defensive attention and challenges, and then he conquers them or has great games against them, and you know that const constitutes progress. Against the Utah Jazz, it was probably one of his worst games of the season a couple weeks ago. They threw two on the ball at him every possession. He had a few turnovers, he didn't shoot well. He didn't really get to his spots, and that's understandable. We talked about this with Cam Thomas last season when teams started trapping and doubling him.

He talked about the adjustment period. Very understandable stuff.

He talked about the adjustment period. Very understandable stuff.

The Bucks come out like the next two games later on the road and they double him all game. They trap him, and Cam Johnson has a few turnovers, but it was just a completely different feel and comfort level navigating those situations and he ends up scoring twenty nine points on eight of thirteen shooting in a win where he played thirty five minutes. He shot four of six from three, He got to the line nine times, and that if there's one stretch couple of games that exemplify his growth and his excellence this season, it would be those two games. For me, I think we can kind of agree like that. We know we can shoot right, we know he's going to be about the right things. We know he's going to be in the right spots on defense, we know he's gonna work his butt off, but getting better, constantly getting one percent better, as Jody Fernandez likes to say, as defenses continue to throw out new challenges to him, that's what's been most impressive. Because I knew all that other stuff about Cam Johnson, I didn't really know that he would respond like this to a larger role on offense.

The Bucks come out like the next two games later on the road and they double him all game. They trap him, and Cam Johnson has a few turnovers, but it was just a completely different feel and comfort level navigating those situations and he ends up scoring twenty nine points on eight of thirteen shooting in a win where he played thirty five minutes. He shot four of six from three, He got to the line nine times, and that if there's one stretch couple of games that exemplify his growth and his excellence this season, it would be those two games. For me, I think we can kind of agree like that. We know we can shoot right, we know he's going to be about the right things. We know he's going to be in the right spots on defense, we know he's gonna work his butt off, but getting better, constantly getting one percent better, as Jody Fernandez likes to say, as defenses continue to throw out new challenges to him, that's what's been most impressive. Because I knew all that other stuff about Cam Johnson, I didn't really know that he would respond like this to a larger role on offense.

I'm running out of things to say to describe how impressed I am with Cam Johnson.

I'm running out of things to say to describe how impressed I am with Cam Johnson.

He's been.

He's been.

To me, the mark of really great players is consistency. His level of consistency has been extraordinary. Clutch plays, you see it on both ends. You see in different looks, different things, a different level of usage that he has in his career, and even if there are adjustments that need to be made, then he does it and keeps going. I think he's got a level of toughness that using about him as a shooter, obviously, but there is a level of toughness that has been evident. And more than anything, I just I think you need a leader and a individual, a professional. He's a pros pro, and so I think you that on a team to help. We're talking about all these young players and Noah Clowney, Jalen Wilson. You know, even though it's like a Keon Johnson, are those who are getting acclimated to the league. To me, he's someone that you watch on a daily basis say, Okay, what has he done through his career, how has he handled this? How has he handled certain things? And so I think his presence in the locker room, on the court, off the court, all that stuff. Yeah, it's it's I think you could pick him for Brooklyn's Finals probably every week we do that. But to your point, the different things we're continuing to see on a week by week basis is something that's very fun in the evolution of someone's career that's only twenty eight years old.

To me, the mark of really great players is consistency. His level of consistency has been extraordinary. Clutch plays, you see it on both ends. You see in different looks, different things, a different level of usage that he has in his career, and even if there are adjustments that need to be made, then he does it and keeps going. I think he's got a level of toughness that using about him as a shooter, obviously, but there is a level of toughness that has been evident. And more than anything, I just I think you need a leader and a individual, a professional. He's a pros pro, and so I think you that on a team to help. We're talking about all these young players and Noah Clowney, Jalen Wilson. You know, even though it's like a Keon Johnson, are those who are getting acclimated to the league. To me, he's someone that you watch on a daily basis say, Okay, what has he done through his career, how has he handled this? How has he handled certain things? And so I think his presence in the locker room, on the court, off the court, all that stuff. Yeah, it's it's I think you could pick him for Brooklyn's Finals probably every week we do that. But to your point, the different things we're continuing to see on a week by week basis is something that's very fun in the evolution of someone's career that's only twenty eight years old.

You know, like it.

You know, like it.

Feels like he's been around what but he's still a young We keep looking at him as the veteran player. He's still a young player and still entering the prime of what he's going to become.

Feels like he's been around what but he's still a young We keep looking at him as the veteran player. He's still a young player and still entering the prime of what he's going to become.

And he's basically the best shooter, the best ball handler, the best passer that he's ever been in his career. I think that that stuff is pretty inarguable. Maybe the shooting, who knows, sample size is whatever, But the guy's been awesome And we could do another hour just on the skills that he's gotten better at it.

And he's basically the best shooter, the best ball handler, the best passer that he's ever been in his career. I think that that stuff is pretty inarguable. Maybe the shooting, who knows, sample size is whatever, But the guy's been awesome And we could do another hour just on the skills that he's gotten better at it.

But you know, and and and your lookalike facial hair that you're trying to now that I know the reasoning behind it.

But you know, and and and your lookalike facial hair that you're trying to now that I know the reasoning behind it.

Not quite you know, Lucas, I dig it, I dig it.

Not quite you know, Lucas, I dig it, I dig it.

I would do the say I tried to look like iron Eagle when I can, and it just it just doesn't doesn't roll my hair is my hair is not as controlled that way.

I would do the say I tried to look like iron Eagle when I can, and it just it just doesn't doesn't roll my hair is my hair is not as controlled that way.

No.

No.

I wear glasses now every now and again, just to try and look alike.

I wear glasses now every now and again, just to try and look alike.

If you are as controlled under pressure as I an eagle, and we could all strive to be more composed. Yeah, I know, Cam Johnson facial hairs. Having a career year, you know, maybe try to change.

If you are as controlled under pressure as I an eagle, and we could all strive to be more composed. Yeah, I know, Cam Johnson facial hairs. Having a career year, you know, maybe try to change.

Lucas you're having Lucas you're having a career.

Lucas you're having Lucas you're having a career.

Yeah, it doesn't, It doesn't connect yet.

Yeah, it doesn't, It doesn't connect yet.

I still got a ways to go, but that I'm very glad to move on from that.

I still got a ways to go, but that I'm very glad to move on from that.

Thank you for the compliment, and.

Thank you for the compliment, and.

Wrap up with our last trivia of twenty twenty four.

Wrap up with our last trivia of twenty twenty four.

What you got, What you Got?

What you got, What you Got?

I I did.

I I did.

It's not quite trivia because there's no wrong answer, but in the spirit of looking.

It's not quite trivia because there's no wrong answer, but in the spirit of looking.

Back, this is my favorite type of trivia.

Back, this is my favorite type of trivia.

In the spirit of looking back, you know, we're looking back at the year behind us. D'Angelo Russell's returning to Brooklyn. So I just want to ask what was your favorite moment from the first ride, from the first go round for D'Angelo Russell and Brooklyn What do you remember, game play, skill interaction, What do you think of Dangel Russell coming There.

In the spirit of looking back, you know, we're looking back at the year behind us. D'Angelo Russell's returning to Brooklyn. So I just want to ask what was your favorite moment from the first ride, from the first go round for D'Angelo Russell and Brooklyn What do you remember, game play, skill interaction, What do you think of Dangel Russell coming There.

Was obviously a lot like The thing I will never forget is.

Was obviously a lot like The thing I will never forget is.

When we were at Indiana and that group clinched the playoffs.

When we were at Indiana and that group clinched the playoffs.

Yep, and I remember why.

Yep, and I remember why.

I don't know who was getting showered with water on the court and who was the water pour between him and Kars Lover, Joe Harris, Spencer, Dinwoodie, Jared Out.

I don't know who was getting showered with water on the court and who was the water pour between him and Kars Lover, Joe Harris, Spencer, Dinwoodie, Jared Out.

The list goes on.

The list goes on.

That was a beloved team for Brooklyn Nets fans for reasons in how they came together and exceeded a lot of expectations based on their togetherness. And he was a major part of that. We remember his All Star season, but but that that is an indelible memory in my mind of sitting there at the scores table calling the game with with I and and watching that moment because you you thought it was going to happen, you know, I don't know. You may remember how many gave four or five games left in the season they needed one win, but there was something about that exact moment when the game ended that to me was the essence of sports and of team and of how you can the collective. The collective parts are greater what what's what's the term?

That was a beloved team for Brooklyn Nets fans for reasons in how they came together and exceeded a lot of expectations based on their togetherness. And he was a major part of that. We remember his All Star season, but but that that is an indelible memory in my mind of sitting there at the scores table calling the game with with I and and watching that moment because you you thought it was going to happen, you know, I don't know. You may remember how many gave four or five games left in the season they needed one win, but there was something about that exact moment when the game ended that to me was the essence of sports and of team and of how you can the collective. The collective parts are greater what what's what's the term?

Yea some uh, the parts greater than the hall. That team was that you know, personified. Yeah, that was my freshman year of college. I remember watching that Indiana game in the in the student lounge. By that time, you know, later in the year, I had made some friends. I was like, we're watching the Brooklyn Nets clinch playoff spot No.

Yea some uh, the parts greater than the hall. That team was that you know, personified. Yeah, that was my freshman year of college. I remember watching that Indiana game in the in the student lounge. By that time, you know, later in the year, I had made some friends. I was like, we're watching the Brooklyn Nets clinch playoff spot No.

Later later that it took a whole year to make friends.

Later later that it took a whole year to make friends.

Well, you know who goes not a whole year, I give it.

Well, you know who goes not a whole year, I give it.

I'm giving you a hard time.

I'm giving you a hard time.

But I well, well, now you really deserve to give me a hard time because I remember the Sacramento Kings come back of.

But I well, well, now you really deserve to give me a hard time because I remember the Sacramento Kings come back of.

Course, oh yes, in which.

Course, oh yes, in which.

I was watching that alone in my dorm room. So you know that was later in the year.

I was watching that alone in my dorm room. So you know that was later in the year.

Off better off Ryan Ruco had such a presence through the TV and he can sit down for the second half of the game to the whole fourth quarter, So I feel like it was probably better off you were watching that one alone.

Off better off Ryan Ruco had such a presence through the TV and he can sit down for the second half of the game to the whole fourth quarter, So I feel like it was probably better off you were watching that one alone.

Good to know Ryan and I were watching the game in the exact sort of way because you know, I didn't turn it off.

Good to know Ryan and I were watching the game in the exact sort of way because you know, I didn't turn it off.

I don't know, you know, maybe I'm sure I had some homework to do.

I don't know, you know, maybe I'm sure I had some homework to do.

I kind of kept it on a background tab when they were down twenty five and they were down twenty and I was like, okay, and then they were down fifteen, so on, And I remember every bucket from that I remember, obviously the game winning layup for Ronde Hollis Jefferson and the three from Jared Dudley on the trail, But I remember, more than everything, a bunch of looping, arcing D'Angelo Russell swishes from three that won them that game, and I'm excited those shots are back in Brooklyn. Hopefully next week We're gonna have a lot to talk about in terms of what he does.