The Brooklyn Nets entered play on Thursday night in search of their third straight victory, facing the Utah Jazz on the second night of a back-to-back.
Through the first three quarters, the Nets were firmly in control, despite the absences of Michael Porter Jr. And Cam Thomas. Entering the fourth, Brooklyn led Utah by nine points, but were outscored 42-20 in the final frame, ultimately losing by 13.
Without their top scorers, it was Noah Clowney who shined, scoring 29 points on 8-for-15 shooting to go along with four rebounds, three assists and three blocks. Over the last three games, Clowney has averaged 22.3 points, much higher than his season average of 13.5. Ziaire Williams added 23 points off the bench while rookie Danny Wolf also impressed as a substitute with 17 points, nine rebounds and three assists.
After averaging 5.8 points just two seasons ago in his rookie year, Clowney is now proving himself to be one of Brooklyn's most prominent young pieces. At just 21 years old, Clowney will have plenty of opportunities to develop as the Nets continue to build their young core.
Now 5-17 on the year, the Nets will have Friday off before hosting the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday. Having rested on the second night of a back-to-back Thursday night, Brooklyn's leading scorer Michael Porter Jr. Will be back into the fold. Porter Jr. Currently ranks 15th in the league in scoring, averaging 25.3 points per game.
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