Cam Johnson contributes a season-best 29 points as the Nets dominate the Hawks.
In New York, Cam Johnson had a standout performance, scoring a season-best 29 points with seven 3-pointers as the Brooklyn Nets triumphed over the Atlanta Hawks with a score of 124-97 in the first of a two-game series on Thursday evening.
The battle for the final play-in spot in the Eastern Conference intensified, with both teams set to clash again at Barclays Center on Saturday. Dennis Schroder emphasized the importance of taking the initiative against Atlanta, who currently hold a three-game lead over the Nets.
Brooklyn, now 23-36, secured victory in interim coach Kevin Ollie’s inaugural home game since replacing Jacques Vaughn. Ollie stressed the significance of energy and effort, highlighting the team’s focus on minimizing turnovers and fostering ball movement, key elements in their winning formula.
Schroder contributed 23 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, leading a balanced Nets attack alongside Mikal Bridges, Day’Ron Sharpe, Lonnie Walker IV, and Dennis Smith Jr.
Johnson emphasized the need for urgency and consistency in the team’s performance going forward, recognizing the challenges they face. Despite Trae Young’s absence due to injury, Dejounte Murray led Atlanta with 28 points as they suffered their third defeat in four games.
Brooklyn dominated early, leading 34-16 after the first quarter and maintaining a 56-50 advantage at halftime before extending their lead in the third quarter. Johnson, relishing his starting role, emphasized the importance of finding rhythm and joy in the game, sentiments echoed by his teammates.
The Nets asserted their dominance in the final quarter, securing a comfortable victory with contributions from Smith and Bridges early on, ultimately sealing the win at 99-75.
