Sixers and Eastern Conference powers get tangled in standings

Brooklyn Nets’ Big 3 builds prepare for a Sixers Showdown

On July 7th, 2019, the Brooklyn Nets finalized an agreement that changed their organization for the better. Signing Kevin Durant boosted the morale of Brooklyn fans and presented head coach Steve Nash an opportunity to do something special. With talented players like James Harden, Kyrie Irving, and Durant the Nets were enthusiastic about their future.

Durant was ready to hit the court in 2021 after nursing an Achilles injury from the previous season. His playmaking and scoring ability helped the Nets climb to the top of the Eastern Conference rankings. Contributions from James Harden have assisted Brooklyn in their rise to the top. His 22.9 points game and 8 rebounds provide opportunities for other teammates. One of the players was Patty Mills. His 13.8 points game and 42.3 percent 3-point shooting have been an effort to replace the absence of star point Kyrie Irving.

Irving’s decision to sit out due to COVID-related issues has cost his team valuable time to work on chemistry. When the time came for Brooklyn’s point guard to join his team on the hardwood, the team struggled to produce wins. Five consecutive losses have dropped the Nets down to sixth place in the Eastern Conference. As the season continues to unwind, the Nets will eventually find their groove.

The race to the Larry O’Brien will begin after players return from the All-Star break. Receiving needed rest will be the plan for the four teams who are separated in the standings by less than two games. If the Philadelphia 76ers have plans of participating in the NBA playoffs, they must continue to stay at the top of the Eastern Conference standings and capitalize on mistakes made by other teams.