Nets Aim to Extend Defensive Streak Against Hornets

The Brooklyn Nets have turned up the heat on defense and are playing their best basketball of 2025. Riding a 4-1 stretch, they’ve held each opponent below 100 points and limited teams to under 41% shooting. Their defensive resurgence will be put to the test Monday when they host the Charlotte Hornets, who are struggling to find consistency.

Nets Locking Down Opponents

Brooklyn’s recent defensive tear began with a 104-83 win in Charlotte on Jan. 29, marking their best defensive outing of the season. The momentum carried through to their latest 102-86 win over Miami, where they held the Heat to just nine fourth-quarter points and blocked a season-high 13 shots.

Key Performers:

• Cameron Johnson: Back from injury, scored 18 points against Miami.
• D’Angelo Russell: Added 17 points and a clutch block.
• Nic Claxton: Double-double (12 points, 10 rebounds, 4 blocks).

With Trendon Watford stepping up at backup point guard after the waiver of Ben Simmons, Brooklyn is showing a new defensive identity that could make them a dark horse in the East.

Hornets Seeking Consistency

The Hornets (2-9 in their last 11 games) continue to struggle despite Miles Bridges’ explosive performances. Bridges hit a clutch game-winner against the Spurs on Friday, but Charlotte followed it up with a disappointing 112-102 loss in Detroit, falling behind by 28 points early.

Charlotte’s Recent Struggles:

• LaMelo Ball (ankle) missed another game, dropping the Hornets to 1-17 without him this season.
• Bridges is averaging 24 PPG in his last nine games, but his efforts haven’t been enough.
• Seth Curry (season-high 26 points vs. Detroit) provided a spark off the bench.

Key Matchup & Injury Watch

• LaMelo Ball: Questionable. If he remains out, KJ Simpson could start.
• Mark Williams: Trade to Lakers rescinded due to a failed physical—his status for Monday remains uncertain.
• Brooklyn’s Defense vs. Bridges: Can the Nets slow down the Hornets’ top scorer?

The Nets won both matchups this season, including a 116-115 home win in November. With Brooklyn surging defensively and Charlotte struggling, Monday’s showdown could be another statement win for the Nets.

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Can the Nets Continue Their Defensive Masterclass?

• Tip-off: Monday, 7:30 PM ET
• Venue: Barclays Center, Brooklyn

Stay tuned as Brooklyn looks to keep their defensive dominance rolling!