The Brooklyn Nets are still searching for traction in a season that’s been anything but smooth. At 3-16, they’ve struggled to find rhythm on either end of the floor - and Monday night’s matchup against the 6-14 Charlotte Hornets offers a chance, albeit a modest one, to start building something resembling momentum.
The good news for Brooklyn? They’re expected to get a couple key pieces back in the lineup.
Michael Porter Jr. and Noah Clowney Cleared to Return
Michael Porter Jr., arguably Brooklyn’s most consistent offensive weapon this season, is set to return after missing the last two games with back soreness. Given his history with back issues - and the surgeries that have come with them - any flare-up is cause for concern. But the fact that he’s cleared to play is a welcome sign for a team that’s lacked scoring punch.
Porter’s ability to stretch the floor and create mismatches on the wing has been one of the few bright spots for the Nets this year. If he’s even close to 100%, his return immediately boosts Brooklyn’s offensive ceiling.
Joining him is Noah Clowney, the 21-year-old big man who was a late addition to the injury report over the weekend due to hip soreness. He’s also been cleared to play. While Clowney’s role is still developing, his energy, length, and defensive instincts provide valuable minutes in a frontcourt that’s been in flux all season.
Who's Still Out?
Unfortunately for Brooklyn, the injury list is still a long one - and it includes some crucial names.
Terance Mann will miss his first game of the season due to rib soreness. Mann’s versatility and defensive presence have made him a steady contributor, so his absence will be felt, especially against a Hornets team that can get hot from the perimeter.
Cam Thomas remains sidelined with a left hamstring strain. Monday will mark his 12th straight missed game.
Before the injury, Thomas was providing much-needed scoring off the bench and showing signs of becoming a more complete offensive threat. Brooklyn has clearly missed his shot creation and fearless mentality on the floor.
Haywood Highsmith is still out as he continues to rehab from knee surgery following a meniscus tear in August. He has yet to make his Nets debut, and while there’s optimism he can eventually carve out a role with his defensive versatility, the wait continues.
Rookie guard Nolan Traore is also unavailable, currently assigned to the G League as he continues his development.
What’s at Stake Monday Night
Let’s be honest - a 3-16 record doesn’t inspire much confidence. But the Nets have an opportunity here. The Hornets aren’t exactly lighting the world on fire either, and with Porter Jr. back in the fold, Brooklyn has a shot to stabilize things, at least for one night.
This isn’t about turning the season around with one win. It’s about showing signs of life.
Getting key players back, finding some continuity, and playing with purpose - that’s the first step. And against a struggling Charlotte squad, the opportunity is there.
Now it’s just a matter of whether the Nets can take advantage.