After Ed Davis’ toughness played a huge role in the Nets’ Game 1 win in Philadelphia, his absence played just as big a role in them getting bullied by the 76ers in the next two. That’s why — even with Joel Embiid listed as doubtful — losing Davis for Game 4 is a bad break for Brooklyn.
“He’s out?” Jarrett Allen said upon finding out, his eyes getting as big as saucers. “That’s the first time I’m hearing it. But we’re going to have to figure out either way, Rondae [Hollis-Jefferson], Jared Dudley, whoever’s going to pay the five, they’re going to have to step up their game the way we all do.