01/30/2025, 3:12 PM

Puts up nine points in return

Brooklyn was without six players due to injury heading into Wednesday, but the return of Watford following a 21-game absence due to a hamstring strain helped restore some depth in the frontcourt. He initially entered the game as a backup at power forward. Still, he ended up seeing most of his minutes in the second half as center Nicolas Claxton's backup after Day'Ron Sharpe suffered a hamstring injury in the second quarter and was ruled out for the rest of the contest. Even if Noah Clowney (ankle) is back in action for the Nets' next game Saturday in Houston, Sharpe's likely absence for that contest should pave the way for Watford to stick around in the rotation.

01/30/2025, 5:00 AM

Subdued effort in victory

Russell was unusually passive on the offensive end, scoring single digits for the first time in the past four games. Since arriving in Brooklyn, Russell has dealt with many obstacles, including injuries and an uncertain role. Given the Nets' trajectory is pointed firmly south, it's hard to envisage a point where Russell's role becomes any clearer moving forward.

01/30/2025, 4:56 AM

Quiet in return Wednesday

Simmons returned from a five-game absence, playing limited minutes off the bench. Although he has been somewhat healthy this season, Simmons continues to be a frustrating asset. To this point, he has appeared in 31 games, averaging 6.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 7.1 assists and 0.8 steals in 25.3 minutes per game.