In New York, Michael Porter Jr. matched his season-high by scoring 35 points, while Nick Claxton achieved his second career triple-double as the Brooklyn Nets triumphed over the New Orleans Pelicans 119-101 on Saturday. Porter, who previously recorded three consecutive 30-point games in early February last year during his final season with Denver, made five three-pointers and grabbed nine rebounds after resting his hip on Thursday.
Claxton contributed 14 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists, becoming the first Nets player this season to notch multiple triple-doubles. He joins James Harden (9) and Kevin Durant, who recorded four triple-doubles in 2021-22, as the only Nets centers to accomplish this feat. This marks the first time since Shawn Bradley achieved five triple-doubles between 1995 and 1997 that a Nets center has had multiple triple-doubles in a season.
Dayron Sharp added 16 points on efficient 7-of-8 shooting, helping the Nets secure their third win in four games and improve to 6-17. Trey Murphy III led the Pelicans with 23 points, but the team suffered their sixth consecutive loss, slipping to a 3-21 record. Sadiq Bey and Bryce McGowens contributed 18 and 16 points, respectively.
The Nets shot an impressive 63.6% in the first quarter, with 14 baskets and 13 assists, building a 35-24 lead. Porter scored 13 points on 5-of-6 shooting in the second quarter, helping Brooklyn extend their lead to 62-44 by halftime. In the second half, the Nets maintained a dominant lead, pushing ahead by as many as 28 points.
Upcoming games include the Pelicans hosting San Antonio on Monday, while the Nets will face Dallas on Friday.
Fan Take: This game highlights Michael Porter Jr.’s growing dominance and the emergence of Nick Claxton as a versatile force for the Nets. For basketball fans, it signals a shift toward a new era of dynamic, multifaceted players shaping the future of the sport.
