Nick Friedell expounds on how Brooklyn Nets can adjust in absence of Kevin Durant: “We’re more equipped to handle his absence”
After Kevin Durant went down with an injury against the Miami Heat, questions have been asked about how they'll handle their loss.
The Brooklyn Nets forward contributed significantly to the team, especially in scoring, but they look more poised to handle their situation much better this time around.
ESPN's Nick Friedell broke down the details of how the team will handle their current situation. Prior to KD's injury, the Nets were one of the hottest teams in the NBA, solely due to their 12-time All-Star's performances this season.
"Nic Claxton just told us, 'Hey, we've been through this before.' We know that Kevin Durant is the best player in the world, but there is that muscle memory of, 'Alright, we're more equipped to handle his absence this year, than we were at the same time last year,'" Friedell said.
"They feel like the offense is clicking at a higher rate, they have Kyrie full-time, they now have Ben Simmons, who needs to do more defensively. Especially to help them process that absences of Kevin Durant."
"This team has seemingly turned it's entire season around by playing better defense, and by coming together as a unit.
"Kyrie has been very good, since he returned from that suspension. He has the respect and the trust in that locker room. But it's on him now, to set a tone without Durant, and carry this group over the next few weeks."
Durant is expected to miss a month of basketball after Miami Heat All-Star Jimmy Butler accidentally landed on the star's knee in their recent bout.
According to reports, the injury isn't that serious, and KD was only diagnosed with an MCL sprain. The Athletic's Shams Charania shared that the superstar will be re-evaluated in two weeks.
Brooklyn will take on the Boston Celtics tomorrow in their first game without KD.
Also read: Kendrick Perkins expects Kyrie Irving to lead as Kevin Durant sits out: “This is a golden opportunity for Kyrie Irving”
TJ Warren could take over in place of Kevin Durant
With Kevin Durant expected to miss at least a month, there are questions as to which player for the Nets will take over. Expectedly, star point guard Kyrie Irving will produce more than his usual averages. But he won't be able to do most of the things himself, with many hoping for TJ Warren to step up.
According to Friedell, coach Jacque Vaughn didn't reveal which player would take over for Durant. There are hints that it could be Warren, as he's capable of creating his own offense. However, Vaughn said that he doesn't want the 6-foot-8 forward to play extended minutes.
Vaughn did not want reveal who would take Durant’s spot in the starting lineup yet. He did say he didn’t want to play T.J. Warren 35-40 minutes a night as he continues his foot rehab.
Vaughn said his message for the team is simple: “No excuses.”
Looking at the Nets' roster, Warren could be their best bet. He's coming back from a foot injury but has had decent games for Brooklyn this season.
The former NC State forward is averaging 9.9 points while shooting 53.7% from the field and 34.5% from beyond the arc.
Also read: Kevin Durant injury: Brooklyn Nets star set to undergo MRI