Brooklyn Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez faced a tough postgame press conference following Sunday’s 129-105 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers at Barclays Center, marking the team’s sixth consecutive defeat. Fernandez openly acknowledged his frustration with his team’s effort and defensive struggles.
“I don’t I don’t think we came fast because we allow 40 [points],” Fernandez said. “I’m failing at trying to get my guys to play hard. And I’m trying to ask questions… How can I do it? To get them to play really hard and then you live with the result.”
The Nets allowed Philadelphia to dominate early, with Kelly Oubre Jr. scoring 22 points in the first quarter. Tyrese Maxey added 26 points, and Quentin Grimes contributed 22 off the bench as the 76ers shot 52% from the field despite missing Joel Embiid. Brooklyn’s defensive lapses extended the lead to as much as 28 points.
Fernandez pointed to turnovers and a lack of focus as key issues. “The effort is not there and the defense is not there and we’re turning the ball over. 19 turnovers for 20 points,” he said. “Until we don’t have that, we’re not going to be able to fight for a win. It’s plain simple.”
The Nets briefly responded with an 18-7 run in the third quarter, narrowing the gap to 83-73, but Philadelphia regained control thanks to Grimes’ three straight baskets and a 9-0 run to start the fourth quarter. Cam Thomas led Brooklyn with 29 points, while Michael Porter Jr. and Terance Mann added 17 apiece.
Fernandez took responsibility for the team’s energy problems and emphasized the need for leadership from players like Nic Claxton. “We need Nic to lead with the energy because energy is contagious,” he said. “When he can play like that, the team benefits from it.”
The coach also discussed lineup adjustments, citing defensive cohesion and development goals. “I trust Tyrese. He did a great job. And then Drake, unfortunately, he got hurt, but you bring Drake who is a good defender… We keep developing these guys,” Fernandez explained.
Brooklyn’s 0-6 start represents their worst season opener since 2015-16. Fernandez acknowledged the challenge of building winning habits. “This group is different than all the groups that I’ve worked with… Right now we don’t have them. We’re very far from that,” he said.
The Nets conclude their three-game homestand on Monday against the Minnesota Timberwolves, hoping to reverse their early-season struggles. Fernandez vowed to continue challenging his players and holding them accountable despite the setbacks.
