On the first 3 point play, Malone should have clearly been called for an offensive foul as he moved into position. The second three point play came as he was barely touched after dunking. Both calls were highly questionable but are the kind the Malone gets after playing in the league forever. The 6 point turnaround gave the Jazz a 4 point lead with a little over one minute left in the game and broke the Nets' hearts.

The Nets played a solid game tonight against a team with more talent. Marbury had a big game tonite with 33 points, as did Kenyon Martin. The team played good defense and rebounded well, but just couldn't pull it together in the end against the much more experienced Jazz. Kendall Gill had another tough game shooting, and right now he's killing the team by not hitting open looks from outside. The second team, lead once again by Kevin Ollie, had another horrible game and ran a 10 point lead back down to 2 in about 5 minutes. Ollie then returned around the 10 minute mark of the fourth quarter and once again ran down a lead. Something has to be done with the second team, and fast.

It's a good sign that the Nets can hold their own against a powerhouse team like the Jazz. In the end, this experience will hopefully help them later on in the season to close out games against tough opponents.

What Joe Liked
Mr. Marbury Looked great tonight for the first time since the beginning of the road trip. Thankfully back on track. Needs a better back-up, though.
Kenyon Martin Had a strong game tonight, both offensively and defensively. Seems to play Malone well - or at least as well as you can. Tonight's line: 19 points on 8 - 16 shooting (and several impressive dunks), 10 rebounds, 4 blocked shots and only 2 fouls in a team high 43 minutes. Beautiful.
Aaron Williams Had a horrible shooting game, but did all the other little things like rebound (11), defend in the post, and hustle. I like his future here in NJ. The only guy on the "second team" that can be counted on.
Low TurnoversHad 6 less than the Jazz. Still have a tendency to make them at critical times, however.

What Joe Didn't Like
Second Team Play This is really a depth issue - which is the same problem the Nets have on the offensive end looking for a finisher. Need better things from this bunch.
Kendall Gill I love the guy, he's a helluva defender, but his shots aren't falling and he's killing us. How about more time for Lucious Harris?
Kevin Ollie Why did you keep him and get rid of Elliot Perry again, Coach Scott? You certainly have a lot of patience. And tell me, what has Douglas done to wind up in your dog house. Don't you think his experience might have helped against the veteran Jazz?
Power 'N" Motion Flak Jackets Are you girls expecting shrapnel from the Sly cannon? What gives with THAT outfit?
Lamest Halftime Event/Announcer Ever Seen Budwiser Hoops finalists? Shooting from halfcourt? With the strong "Drink Budwiser until you're sick" message? With the lamest sports talk show host I've ever heard?

Star of the Game
Karl Malone Begrudgingly. He did turn the game around, even if the calls were bogus. Had 21 mostly quiet points, 10 boards and 7 assists.

Archive | Backlash | Bio | Calendar | Champagne's Blog | Diatribe | Game x Game | History | Home | Joe Netsfan's Blog | Media | Opponents | Players | Playoffs | Search | Specials