How Did Dennis Schroder Lead the Nets to a Stunning Comeback Against the Warriors?
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In a thrilling matchup on Monday night, Dennis Schroder led a shorthanded Brooklyn Nets team to a remarkable comeback, overcoming an 18-point deficit to defeat the Golden State Warriors 128-120. Schroder poured in 31 points, with Cam Thomas adding 23, as the Nets rallied from behind to win on the road after a tough 108-103 victory in Sacramento the previous night.
Schroder Sparks Nets’ Comeback
Schroder was the driving force behind Brooklyn’s resurgence, scoring key baskets in the second half. His crucial three-pointer with 11:10 left tied the game at 92, and he followed it up with another three at 9:43 to put the Nets ahead. The Warriors, who had been in control for most of the game, couldn’t make the necessary stops in the closing moments to preserve their lead.
Stephen Curry, who finished with 28 points, hit a 3-pointer with 3:26 left to bring the Warriors within three, but Golden State’s defense faltered when it mattered most. Andrew Wiggins added 18 points for the Warriors, but the team’s failure to execute in crunch time ultimately cost them the game.
Nets Overcome Injuries and Absences
Brooklyn’s victory was even more impressive considering they were without several key players. Ben Simmons, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Noah Clowney were all sidelined, with Clowney undergoing an MRI exam for a sprained left ankle sustained on Sunday. Nic Claxton also missed the game due to back issues. Despite these challenges, the Nets shot 44.4% from three-point range, with contributions from Jalen Wilson, who added 18 points to the effort.
Schroder, who had missed Sunday’s game due to right ankle soreness, proved crucial to the Nets’ success in this back-to-back road game. Brooklyn jumped out to an early 9-2 lead, but the Warriors quickly recovered and went on a run to take control of the game. Despite the adversity, the Nets remained resilient and executed when needed to come away with the win.
Warriors’ Struggles in the Second Half
The Warriors entered the game with a 12-4 record but fell to 12-5 with the loss. Despite holding an 18-point lead at one point, they were unable to hold onto it, mainly due to their inability to stop the Nets’ offense in the second half. Curry’s efforts to bring his team back, including an impressive assist on Moses Moody’s 12 straight points in the second quarter, weren’t enough. The Warriors, who had scored 47 points off the bench, saw their lead slip away as Brooklyn’s shooting efficiency improved.
Key Takeaways
For the Nets:
– Depth Despite injuries, Brooklyn showed great resilience, overcoming the absence of several key players. Schroder’s leadership and Thomas’ scoring were pivotal in their victory.
– Strong Shooting: The Nets shot an impressive 44.4% from three, capitalizing on open looks and executing well in the second half.
For the Warriors:
– Inconsistent Defense: Golden State’s inability to stop the Nets in the second half led to their downfall. Despite strong individual performances from Curry and Wiggins, the team couldn’t maintain their lead.
– Bench Contributions: Moses Moody’s 12 consecutive points were a highlight, but the Warriors’ bench couldn’t match the Nets’ energy and production in the second half.
Looking Ahead
The Nets will be encouraged by their ability to win despite being undermanned, showing promise for future games as they await the return of their key players. Meanwhile, the Warriors will need to reassess their defense, especially in late-game situations, as they look to bounce back from this disappointing loss.
With Schroder’s leadership and the Nets’ bench depth, Brooklyn continues to show that they can compete with anyone, even when facing adversity. For Golden State, the focus will now shift to tightening up their defense as they prepare for their next matchup.
