After sweeping the Brooklyn Nets (45-38, 41-40-2 ATS) in the regular season, the Philadelphia 76ers (55-28, 49-34-0 ATS) opened up this series with another win over their division rivals. Brooklyn never held a lead in the 20-point loss and committed 11 more turnovers than Philadelphia did. The 76ers won all four quarters and left the home fans happy. Game two is back in Wells Fargo Center, this time tipping off at 7:30 p.m. EST, as the Nets look to even things up.
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?? Game Highlights vs. Nets | 04.15.23
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— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) April 16, 2023
Saturday afternoon's loss made it 0-5 for Brooklyn against Philadelphia, and just 1-4-0 ATS. This matchup has been tormenting the Nets all season. Of course, the team they're trotting out for this series is drastically different from how they began the year, with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving leading the way. Still, this is who they have to win with to keep their title hopes alive.
Mikal Bridges did his part in game one, hitting 12 of his 18 shot attempts and finishing with a game-high 30 points. Yet, it wasn't enough to overcome Brooklyn's 19 turnovers or defensive rebounding struggles. If there's a silver lining from the loss it's that the Nets shot well from the field. Patching up other facets of the game can yield the results they want if they shoot like that again.
Shooting efficiency was never their issue this season, as they finished seventh in effective field goal percentage. It helps that they finished fifth in three-point percentage and seventh in free throw percentage. Offensive rebounding was nonexistent for Brooklyn though, as their 19.6% rate was 29th.
Defensive rebounding was an issue too, finishing 28th in defensive rebounding percentage this season. It held back a Nets team that was excellent at forcing misses this season, especially at the rim. Led by Nic Claxton, the Nets had the highest block percentage in the NBA.