Nets’ Tanking Strategy Sparks Debate as Players Aim to Compete

PORTLAND: The Nets are in a bit of a pickle. They’re clearly tanking, but the players are still fighting hard to win games. It’s like they’re on two different pages. The front office is looking at the long game, while the players just want to win now.

Ben Simmons made it clear before their game against the Trail Blazers that they need to compete, no matter what the front office thinks. He’s all about winning and wants his teammates to feel the same way. They’ve been struggling lately, losing five games in a row, but they’re not giving up.

In their last game, they lost a close one to the Jazz, but they showed some fight by scoring the last six points to push it into overtime. Even injured players like Cam Johnson are trying to lift spirits, hoping for a turnaround.

Simmons pointed out that winning in the NBA is tough and requires attention to detail. The Nets are sitting at 13-26, which isn’t great, but they’re still in the mix for a better lottery pick. Every game counts, especially against teams like the Trail Blazers, who are also struggling.

Nic Claxton emphasized the need for a short memory and staying positive. Losing can wear on you, but they’ve got to keep pushing. The season is tough, and it’s hard to balance the desire to win with the reality of tanking.

Coach Jordi Fernandez sees every game as an opportunity, whether they’re winning or losing. He’s encouraging his players to make the most of their minutes and show what they can do. With some key players out, it’s a chance for others to step up and prove themselves.