Magic Johnson had nothing but good words to say about the Brooklyn Nets after the their blowout win over the Philadelphia 76ers (129-100).
The Nets dominated the Sixers from the opening tip, led by as many as 32 (102-70) and triumphed at Wells Fargo Center.
For his part, Magic Johnson believes the Nets are the team to beat in the East, despite their struggles.
“Tonight the Nets proved that they are the team to beat in the East with their blowout victory over the Sixers!” the NBA and Lakers legend tweeted.
Tonight the Nets proved that they are the team to beat in the East with their blowout victory over the Sixers! — Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) March 11, 2022
Brooklyn has been struggling since the start of the season. Kevin Durant’s injuries, Kyrie Irving’s vaccination status and James Harden’s trade created a series of chemistry issues.
With Irving playing part-time, Durant missing 25 games with injury and Harden leaving the team in early February, Brooklyn won just three of its past 20 games.
However, it seems the Nets are getting back to form. Currently at a two-game winning streak, they are eighth in the East, at 34-33.
The Nets have their sight sets on reaching the sixth place on the table, which secures the direct qualification for the playoffs. Brooklyn is five games behind sixth-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers (38-27).
Photo: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Their triumph over the Sixers could be a turning point for the Nets. Against a fellow East contender, Brooklyn showed they are capable of dominating any opponent when healthy.
It seems the addition of Seth Curry, Andre Drummond and Ben Simmons is what the Nets were looking for to turn things around.
With Durant back healthy, Irving set to play full-time soon and Simmons season debut set for late March-early April, Brooklyn will be a completely different team.
Brooklyn will now attempt to extend its winning streak to three games, as they host rivals New York Knicks on Sunday.
For his part, Magic Johnson would love to see a Lakers-Nets matchup in the NBA Finals. Just like the Nets, though, the Lakers also have a turbulent season. The 17-time NBA champions are ninth in the West, at 28-37, and it is very difficult to avoid the play-in tournament.
That said, the Nets (and the Lakers) need to build a winning streak to create some momentum and secure their place in the postseason, proving Magic Johnson right.
KD didn't mince words after the Nets W vs. the 76ers 😳 pic.twitter.com/15qSOu2IKT — Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 11, 2022
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