The Brooklyn Nets are navigating a challenging end to the 2025-26 NBA season, marked by injuries and the ongoing rebuilding process. With a record of 17-53, the Nets have already ruled out rookie guard Egor Demin and backup center Day'Ron Sharpe for the remainder of the season. Now, as they embark on a west coast road trip, they'll be missing even more key players from their rotation.
On Saturday, the Nets announced that center Nic Claxton, forward Michael Porter Jr., and forward Noah Clowney will not suit up for Sunday's game against the Sacramento Kings, who share an identical 18-53 record. Claxton is being rested, while Porter is sidelined with a left hamstring strain, and Clowney is dealing with a right wrist sprain.
Porter's situation is particularly noteworthy, as he is expected to be out for two to three weeks due to his hamstring issue. This timeline suggests he might miss the rest of the season. While the Nets haven't officially ruled him out for the year, it aligns with their strategy to secure one of the league's three worst records, potentially benefiting their draft prospects.
Head coach Jordi Fernandez mentioned before the narrow 93-92 loss to the New York Knicks that Clowney would miss the game against the Kings. However, there's hope he'll return for at least three of the four remaining games on the road trip after Sunday.
In a bit of positive news, veteran forward Terance Mann, who missed Friday's game against the Knicks due to an illness, is listed as probable for Sunday. If Mann takes the court, he could play a crucial role in the rotation, especially with the Nets missing five players, including four regular starters. His presence could provide some much-needed stability as the team navigates this challenging stretch.