The Nets blew another fourth quarter lead Wednesday night. This time it was to their NYC rivals the Knicks. The Nets led heading into the fourth when their defense cranked up and the Nets players began to wilt. All of this happened with Knicks embattled superstar Carmelo Anthony on the bench for the entire quarter.
Atkinson said the Knicks aggressive ball denial on the wings and the Nets inability to control the defensive backboard all contributed to the Nets struggles. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Isaiah Whitehead were singled out for praise by Atkinson. But, collectively the team could not execute.
Coach Atkinson talked about blowing another lead and the team making it harder on themselves by attempting difficult passes, etc. when a simple one was available. See full comments in the video below.