Kenny Atkinson’s Revenge: Nets Humiliated 130-101 by Cavaliers in Brooklyn

The Brooklyn Nets endured a crushing 130-101 loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday night at the Barclays Center, marking a disappointing outing in front of their home crowd. This game carried added significance as former Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson returned to Brooklyn, this time leading the Cavaliers.

Evan Mobley spearheaded Cleveland’s efforts with a 21-point performance, supported by Caris LeVert, who scored 19 points, and Donovan Mitchell, who added 18 points and five assists. Georges Niang also delivered a strong showing, contributing 17 points and nine rebounds as Cleveland improved to 23-4 for the season.

Cameron Johnson led the charge for Brooklyn with 22 points and five assists, while Day’Ron Sharpe posted 15 points and seven rebounds. However, the Nets struggled to find their rhythm offensively, resulting in their third consecutive defeat and sixth loss in seven games, dropping their record to 10-16.

Cavaliers Dominate with Offensive Efficiency

Cleveland entered the game as the NBA’s most accurate shooting team, boasting the league’s best field-goal percentage (50.3%) and three-point shooting percentage (39.9%). They lived up to that reputation, shooting an impressive 53.1% from the field against the Nets.

• The Cavaliers racked up 33 assists on 43 made shots, showcasing exceptional ball movement and teamwork.
• Their scoring depth allowed them to keep the Nets on their heels throughout the game.

This victory also marked the Cavaliers’ sixth win in seven games, further solidifying their dominance in the Eastern Conference.

Nets Falter Without Schröder

Brooklyn played its first game since trading point guard Dennis Schröder to the Golden State Warriors, and their offense clearly suffered in his absence.

• The Nets recorded a season-low 40 points in the first half, digging themselves into a hole they couldn’t climb out of.
• Despite a stronger third quarter, where they scored 37 points, the team failed to mount a meaningful comeback.

Cameron Johnson’s standout performance and Day’Ron Sharpe’s contributions provided glimmers of hope, but the team’s lack of cohesion was evident.

Key Moments Define the Game

Cavaliers’ Momentum Shift

Brooklyn got off to a promising start, jumping to a 7-0 lead early in the first quarter. However, Cleveland quickly responded with a staggering 32-5 run, seizing control of the game. By the end of the first quarter, the Cavaliers had built a commanding 20-point lead, effectively silencing the Nets’ crowd.

Season Record for Cleveland

The Cavaliers’ offensive explosion marked the seventh game this season in which they’ve scored at least 130 points, setting a franchise single-season record for games surpassing that milestone.

Postgame Reactions

Kenny Atkinson, who led the Nets for four seasons, was met with mixed emotions during his return to Brooklyn. His Cavaliers, however, showed no mercy as they dismantled his former team.

Cameron Johnson acknowledged the team’s struggles, stating, “We’re still adjusting to changes, but it’s on us to get better.”

Meanwhile, Atkinson praised his squad for their focus and execution, emphasizing the team’s balanced offensive and defensive efforts.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

• Cavaliers: Cleveland (23-4) will host the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday, seeking to extend their strong form in a high-stakes Eastern Conference clash.
• Nets: Brooklyn (10-16) travels to Toronto on Thursday to face the Raptors, hoping to regroup and break their losing streak.

As Cleveland continues to dominate, Brooklyn faces mounting pressure to find their footing amid roster adjustments and offensive struggles. The road ahead won’t be easy, but the Nets must address their deficiencies if they hope to turn their season around.