The Brooklyn Nets bounced back from a three-game losing streak with a gritty 99-90 win over the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night.
Cam Johnson led the charge with a stellar 26-point performance, proving once again why he’s a key offensive weapon for Brooklyn.
Johnson’s scoring came at crucial moments, particularly in a decisive fourth quarter when the Nets broke away from a tied game. After Indiana’s Pascal Siakam evened the score at 80 with just over eight minutes left, Brooklyn responded with a game-changing 10-0 run. Jaylen Wilson capped the stretch with a clutch basket, giving the Nets a commanding 90-80 lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
Nic Claxton was a force on both ends of the floor, contributing 16 points and anchoring Brooklyn’s defense. Off the bench, Shake Milton added 15 points, providing a much-needed scoring spark for a Nets team that has struggled with consistency in recent games.
For Indiana, T.J. McConnell led the way with 14 points, while Tyrese Haliburton added 13 in a quieter outing. The Pacers’ offensive struggles were evident, as they shot just 13-of-39 from the field and 4-of-18 from beyond the arc in the first half. Despite a stronger second-half effort, Indiana couldn’t overcome their early inefficiency and frequent turnovers.
Turnovers were a major storyline for the Pacers, who coughed up the ball 12 times in the first half alone. While they improved their ball security in the second half, committing only four turnovers, the damage had already been done. Brooklyn capitalized on these mistakes, turning them into transition opportunities and easy buckets.
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Cam Johnson’s consistency has been a bright spot for Brooklyn this season. His 26-point outing marked the ninth time he’s scored 20 or more points, showcasing his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. His contributions were complemented by a strong defensive effort from the entire Nets squad, who held Indiana to just 90 points—well below their season average.
Brooklyn’s ability to close out the game in the final eight minutes was a defining factor. They outscored Indiana 19-10 during that stretch, displaying poise and execution on both ends of the floor. This late-game surge highlighted the team’s resilience and focus, qualities they’ll need as they navigate a competitive Eastern Conference.
The Pacers, meanwhile, have now lost four straight games and seven of their last ten. Their slow start on Wednesday underscored a recurring issue: inconsistency in their offensive execution. While McConnell and Haliburton tried to keep Indiana afloat, the team’s poor shooting and first-half turnovers proved too much to overcome.
Brooklyn’s victory was not just about breaking their losing streak—it was a statement about their ability to compete against tough opponents. With Johnson leading the way and Claxton providing stability, the Nets showed flashes of the team they aim to become as the season progresses.
Looking ahead, Brooklyn will face a tough test when they host Milwaukee on Sunday, a matchup that will require them to maintain their defensive intensity and ball movement. Meanwhile, Indiana will look to regroup as they visit Chicago on Friday, hoping to snap their own losing streak and regain momentum.
This win for the Nets serves as a reminder of their potential when their key players step up and execute the game plan. For the Pacers, it’s back to the drawing board as they search for answers to their recent struggles.
