Issues for the Nets

We all know the Nets played very well in their first three preseason games. But their performance in games four and five had everyone wondering if this team really is prepared to make their first playoff run since 2006. They may not be ready right now but there is nothing to worry about. The preseason makes it possible for teams just like the Nets to work out any kinks they might have. This includes chemistry issues and defense, or lack there of.

The team defense so far has been terrible. Teams are getting to the paint and scoring way too easily. Avery Johnson has made it his goal to turn a team that was 24th in the league in points allowed per game to a team that is a dominating force on the defensive end. That means guys like Brook Lopez and Kris Humphries really need to step up their interior defense.
As individuals, they are average defenders. But that doesn't matter. They need to work together to be dominant and not let guys get easy baskets underneath. The part of their job that needs the most work is the help defense. When an opposing player blows past the perimeter defender, their job is to make sure he isn't getting to the basket. They aren't doing that so guys are getting easy points. That also means that Deron Williams, Joe Johnson and Gerald Wallace need to do their jobs and not let those guys get past them.

The team as a whole needs to improve on defense. The teams best individual defender is Gerald Wallace. He's not a bad guy to have as your best defender, but the saddest part is that the next best defender may be Reggie Evans. I'm not taking anything away from Reggie, but he isn't going to get it done. So if Avery is serious about making the Nets a good defensive team, he needs to get to work fast.

The whole chemistry issue shouldn't be a big deal. If you can recall, the Miami Heat were being called a bust during their first two months together back in 2010-11. They worked out the kinks and they made it all the way to the NBA Finals. I'm not saying the Nets will make it that far in year one, but they don't need to rush the gelling of the players. Give this team some time and they will be fine.

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