The Brooklyn Nets were expected to struggle this season, but that does not make their difficult start any easier to accept. Five consecutive defeats have left them as one of just two winless teams in the NBA, alongside the Sacramento Kings. The poor start has put considerable pressure on Jordi Fernández and his players, although they remain confident they can turn things around.
As the Nets look for a response, the Spanish coach has stressed the importance of leadership from his two veteran stars, Julius Randle and Michael Porter Jr. However, he also believes that leadership must come naturally rather than being forced upon them.
Speaking to The New York Post, Fernández explained that he wants both players to take on leadership roles but cannot expect them to act in ways that do not come naturally to them. He also expressed confidence in their intentions and praised their efforts to support the team.
The coach made it clear that he is pleased with the commitment both players have shown since the start of the season and has no concerns about their willingness to help their teammates.
Jordi Fernández takes the blame
Rather than shifting responsibility onto his players, Fernández has acknowledged that the Nets are not performing as he would like and that it is his job to establish a clearer identity and bring the team together.
Reflecting on the team’s struggles, he highlighted their poor body language and lack of energy when things go against them, stressing that these are aspects they can control. He also admitted that the players have not been working together as a cohesive unit, accepting responsibility for the team’s lack of unity.
(Photograph by IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
