For the first time in four years, the Brooklyn Nets emerge from the All-Star break with something to play for.
While many expected that to be the pursuit of a lottery position given the Nets — for the first time since 2013 — have possession of their own first-round pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, the Nets (30-29) are in the thick of the Eastern Conference playoff race with a tough second half ahead.
That begins Thursday as they entertain the Portland Trail Blazers (34-23), currently holding a top-four spot in the Western Conference.
Thursday’s game at Barclays Center completes the NBA circuit for Brooklyn — Portland is the last team in the league the Nets had not yet faced this season.