The Brooklyn Nets took the second part of their big early-season test on Monday night.
Despite losing both games of a back-to-back against the Boston Celtics and the Cleveland Cavaliers, they had represented themselves well. Brooklyn took the Celtics to overtime after a potential game-winning three from Cam Johnson hit back-iron at the end of regulation, and then less than 24 hours later, built a seven-point lead in clutch-time against the 10-0 Cavs.
Did they blow that lead? Yes, but they made a statement nonetheless. Facing the Eastern Conference’s two best teams, the Brooklyn Nets proved that they’re not just feisty, but pretty good.