If one game broke differently last June, the Nets might be trying to defend an NBA title.
Instead the Nets still are trying to prove they can defend … anyone at all.
Six of the Nets’ last nine opponents have eclipsed their season scoring average by trading baskets in shootouts with the score-first duo of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. It’s a dangerous formula to rely on in the upcoming playoffs, which is why coach Steve Nash is hoping team leaders sense an issue that needs correcting after the Nets allowed 119 points to the Hornets and 123 to the lowly Pistons over the last two games.
“It’s always most effective when it’s player-led,” Nash said. “They’re going to hear me say it over and over every day. When they push each other for more, you’ll see the defense improve some. We’re going to stay on them … but I think there is an element to it that is when they decide they’re going to defend and do it internally they’ll be…