Since defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder two days ago, the Brooklyn Nets have been preparing for a seemingly favorable matchup against a team with a single-digit win record. However, the Nets lived up to their unpredictable reputation by delivering a bizarre and ultimately disappointing loss to the Portland Trail Blazers in overtime, finishing with a score of 134-127.

The defensive struggles that haunted them during a recent five-game losing streak resurfaced, and the game featured additional setbacks, including Day’Ron Sharpe injuring his knee and Cam Thomas receiving stitches for a head injury. As the Nets have some time before their next game in Paris on Thursday, here are three key takeaways from this disheartening defeat.

1. Mixed Defensive Performance:
The Nets displayed a strong defensive presence when Trail Blazers attempted to drive into the paint, with Nic Claxton and Day’Ron Sharpe acting like formidable bouncers, blocking and deterring shots effectively. In the paint, the Nets outscored the Blazers 62-38, showcasing dominance. However, beyond the arc, Brooklyn struggled to defend, allowing the Trail Blazers to shoot 52.6% from deep.

The excessive blitzing strategy backfired, as Portland capitalized on open three-point opportunities. Despite winning in various metrics, the Nets’ defensive decisions, particularly the persistent blitzing, contributed significantly to the loss.

2. Point Guard Upgrade Needed:
Anfernee Simons of the Trail Blazers had a standout performance, scoring 38 points and providing 11 assists, underscoring the Nets’ deficiency at the point guard position. Dennis Smith Jr. closed the game for the Nets, while Spencer Dinwiddie, who started, did not return after the fourth quarter.

Smith’s driving ability is limited by inconsistent finishing around the rim and a subpar jump shot, while Dinwiddie struggles to penetrate or has lost that capability. The combined shortcomings of both players hinder the team’s offense, resulting in stagnation and contributing to losses. The Nets need a point guard who can apply pressure on the rim and stretch the floor consistently.

3. Opportunity for Nic Claxton:
With Sharpe’s injury and potential sideline time, Nic Claxton may see increased usage in the upcoming games. Claxton has delivered standout performances recently, and with the center depth now lacking, he could play a more prominent role in the team’s offense. However, the circumstances leading to this opportunity, including Sharpe’s injury, are unfortunate for the team. Claxton’s ability to capitalize on this chance will be crucial for the Nets, given the challenges they face in the absence of key players.