Full Breakdown
Nets Struggle Under Coach Jordi Fernández Amid Disastrous Performance
1/23/2026, 7:09:56 AM
Recent Performance Decline
The Brooklyn Nets have faced a significant downturn in performance, culminating in a dismal 120-66 loss to the New York Knicks on January 21, 2026. This defeat marked a low point in a troubling stretch for the team, which has recorded the worst net rating in the NBA at -13.0 over the past 13 games. The Nets' defensive struggles are highlighted by a ranking of No. 29 in defensive rating, allowing 122.2 points per 100 possessions, and an offensive rating of No. 28, scoring only 109.1 points per 100 possessions. The team is currently tied with the New Orleans Pelicans for the most losses in this timeframe, with 11 defeats.
Coach's Accountability
Head coach Jordi Fernández has publicly accepted responsibility for the team's poor performance, stating, “I have to help them better... the last 12 games we have been poor defensively and poor offensively and that falls on me.” He acknowledged the team's lack of aggression and execution, particularly in rebounding, where they were outmatched 56-27. Fernández emphasized the need for improvement, saying, “It’s just obviously a tough experience to go through, but we’ll be better. Me, the first one…It was my fault. I didn’t prepare them to compete at the highest level.”
Players' Perspectives
Despite Fernández's admission of fault, some players have expressed differing views on the team's struggles. Rookie Drake Powell stated he “100 percent” disagreed with the notion that the losses are solely on the coaching staff, asserting that the players share the responsibility. Noah Clowney, another player, echoed this sentiment, noting that the team failed to execute Fernández’s game plan and described the performance as “as bad as it can get.” Clowney remarked, “We’ve got to be better on our own, too,” indicating that player accountability is also a crucial factor in the team's struggles.
Context of Recent Games
Prior to this recent slump, the Nets had shown promise with a 7-3 record in December, including notable victories against teams like the Toronto Raptors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Minnesota Timberwolves. However, the inability to maintain that momentum has raised concerns about the team's consistency and overall direction under Fernández's leadership.
What's Next for the Nets
As the Nets prepare for their upcoming game against the Boston Celtics, they face the challenge of reversing their current trajectory. With key players like Jayson Tatum and Josh Minott sidelined, the Nets will need to capitalize on this opportunity to regain their footing and demonstrate improvement in both offensive and defensive execution.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I have to help them better. The last 12 games we have been poor defensively and poor offensively and that falls on me,” — Jordi Fernández, Head Coach
- “I mean, we’ve got to be better on our own, too,” — Noah Clowney, Nets Forward
- “ultimately on [the players].” — Drake Powell, Rookie Guard
