The Brooklyn Nets are heading into Tuesday’s matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers with a bit of momentum-and a few lingering question marks. Fresh off one of their most complete performances of the season, a 96-81 win over the Toronto Raptors, the Nets finally closed strong in the fourth quarter, something that’s been a recurring issue all year. But even with that encouraging step forward, the team’s depth will continue to be tested.
Brooklyn remains without three key rotation pieces: Cam Thomas, Haywood Highsmith, and rookie Drake Powell. And while the Nets have managed to hold their own despite the absences, the road ahead doesn’t get any easier.
On Monday, the team confirmed that Powell will miss Tuesday’s game in Philly due to a right ankle sprain-an injury he picked up during last week’s loss to the Miami Heat. It’s the third time this season Powell has been sidelined with an ankle issue, which naturally raises some concern about the long-term management of the rookie’s health. Still, the team doesn’t appear overly alarmed about the latest setback.
“[I’m] not concerned. He’ll be back soon,” said interim head coach Jordi Fernandez before Sunday’s game against Toronto. While Powell’s absence won’t help a Nets team already thin on the wing, the tone from the coaching staff suggests this isn’t expected to be a long-term issue.
That said, the repeated ankle injuries are something to monitor. For a rookie like Powell, who’s still finding his footing in the league, staying healthy is key to building rhythm and confidence. The Nets may opt to tread carefully here, especially considering how important his development is to the team’s future plans.
The other two injured players, Thomas and Highsmith, remain out as well. Thomas, in particular, has been sorely missed-his scoring punch and ability to create in isolation have been central to Brooklyn’s offense when he’s healthy. Highsmith’s defensive versatility and energy are also valuable pieces that the Nets have had to replace by committee.
But not all the injury news is negative. Rookie guard Ben Saraf, who had been sent down to the G League after struggling in an early-season starting role, is back with the big club. And he’s returning with a serious confidence boost.
Saraf just turned in his best performance of the G League season, dropping 40 points to go along with six rebounds and four assists in a win over the Oklahoma City Blue during the G League Showcase. Whether the Nets had already planned to bring him back before that outburst is anyone’s guess, but the timing couldn’t be better.
With the Nets shorthanded and looking for backcourt production, Saraf could be in line for some real minutes against the Sixers. And if his G League performance is any indication, he’s ready to make the most of the opportunity. The challenge now is translating that confidence and production to the NBA level-especially against a tough, physical Philadelphia team.
As the Nets prepare for a big test on the road, they’ll be leaning on a mix of veterans and young talent to keep the momentum rolling. The return of Saraf adds a new wrinkle to the rotation, and while Powell’s absence is a setback, the team appears optimistic about his return. For now, Brooklyn’s focus is on building off Sunday’s win-and proving they can compete, even when the roster isn’t at full strength.