Nets Coach Jordi Fernández has sparked a transformation in forward Michael Porter Jr., urging him to cut and play smart basketball rather than relying on individual flashes of brilliance. The once-named "Never Swing the Rock" moniker now seems out of place, as Porter has started to deliver sustained performances that benefit his team.
In Sunday's 129-106 thrashing of Washington, Porter showcased a new level of maturity, leading the charge with a career-high 34 points, while also dishing out seven assists. His improved playmaking skills have been a welcome addition to the Nets' offense, and Fernández is thrilled to see his player embracing the challenge.
"His plan for him to get better and show things he hasn't done before has started to pay off," said Fernández. "And it's contagious - when he plays like this, everybody benefits."
Porter credits his new approach to cutting as a deliberate decision to use his size around the rim more effectively. He notes that his time with Nikola Jokic in Denver led some to assume he only made cuts for the benefit of his teammate's vision. However, Porter has always been a cutter and likes to find easy buckets.
In recent games, Porter has found success as part of a well-oiled passing unit, with teammates like Claxton and Sharpe consistently finding him for open shots around the rim. His confidence in this new style of play is evident, and his results are starting to speak for themselves.
Claxton's impressive all-around performance on Sunday was a season-high, with 17 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. His averages are now career highs, and Fernández couldn't be prouder of his player's growth.
As the Nets continue to rack up wins, their increasing efficiency and cohesion will likely be key factors in their success this season. With Porter leading by example, it's clear that he has finally found a rhythm on the court - one that benefits not just himself but his entire team.
The Nets' recent performance highlights the growing importance of smart basketball and teamwork. With Porter embracing his role as a cutter and playmaker, it will be exciting to see how this new dynamic unfolds in the coming games.
The Brooklyn's victory on Sunday was their most points scored since January 2025, and they handed out a season-high 32 assists. Rookie point guard Ben Saraf suffered an ankle injury during Long Island's last game, leaving his status uncertain for now.
In Sunday's 129-106 thrashing of Washington, Porter showcased a new level of maturity, leading the charge with a career-high 34 points, while also dishing out seven assists. His improved playmaking skills have been a welcome addition to the Nets' offense, and Fernández is thrilled to see his player embracing the challenge.
"His plan for him to get better and show things he hasn't done before has started to pay off," said Fernández. "And it's contagious - when he plays like this, everybody benefits."
Porter credits his new approach to cutting as a deliberate decision to use his size around the rim more effectively. He notes that his time with Nikola Jokic in Denver led some to assume he only made cuts for the benefit of his teammate's vision. However, Porter has always been a cutter and likes to find easy buckets.
In recent games, Porter has found success as part of a well-oiled passing unit, with teammates like Claxton and Sharpe consistently finding him for open shots around the rim. His confidence in this new style of play is evident, and his results are starting to speak for themselves.
Claxton's impressive all-around performance on Sunday was a season-high, with 17 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. His averages are now career highs, and Fernández couldn't be prouder of his player's growth.
As the Nets continue to rack up wins, their increasing efficiency and cohesion will likely be key factors in their success this season. With Porter leading by example, it's clear that he has finally found a rhythm on the court - one that benefits not just himself but his entire team.
The Nets' recent performance highlights the growing importance of smart basketball and teamwork. With Porter embracing his role as a cutter and playmaker, it will be exciting to see how this new dynamic unfolds in the coming games.
The Brooklyn's victory on Sunday was their most points scored since January 2025, and they handed out a season-high 32 assists. Rookie point guard Ben Saraf suffered an ankle injury during Long Island's last game, leaving his status uncertain for now.
. Porter Jr.'s turnaround is kinda cool, I guess 
. It's all well and good that he's finding a new rhythm and playing smart basketball, but what about the guy who was always "Never Swing the Rock" moniker? Now he just seems like another dude trying to fit in with the team 
. And honestly, it feels kinda sad that he had to go through this transformation... like, did he even really like being known for his individual flashes of brilliance or what? 
. Anyway, at least Claxton is killing it right now, and I'm hyped about the Nets' efficiency and cohesion 
. But, on a more serious note, another ankle injury to worry about... this season's gonna be long if everyone stays healthy 
.
I'm so stoked to see Michael Porter Jr. finally figuring out his game! It's like he's been on the right path all along, but just needed that extra nudge from Coach Fernández. His new approach to cutting is genius and it's amazing to see him using his size around the rim more effectively. And let's give a shoutout to Claxton, he's having an incredible season and his stats are totally on point 
! This team's chemistry is looking stronger by the minute and I'm loving every minute of it 
claxton is looking fire as well and their chemistry is just getting better and better 
️ i'm hyped for the rest of the season, this new smart basketball vibe is exactly what the nets need 
and Claxton's development is huge too, his all-around skills are making him a nightmare to match up against 
fernández is doing a great job as coach, making adjustments on the fly and getting his guys playing together like a well-oiled machine 
Dream big, I guess? Coach Fernández has been preaching patience and smart basketball, and it's paying off! Porter Jr.'s transformation is a perfect example of how hard work and dedication can lead to greatness. The Nets' recent performances are like a breath of fresh air - they're finally clicking as a team. And let's be real, when everyone benefits from the same rhythm, it's magic 
and fernandez is the genius coach who made him see this new way to play 
. their team is so hyped and efficient now, it's like a well-oiled machine 
[link to game highlights](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abc12345)
. Claxton's having an amazing season too, he's my new favorite Nets player 
.
and porter's confidence in his new role as a cutter and playmaker is so inspiring 
saraf's injury might be a blessing in disguise, it'll give ben some time to rest and come back stronger 
. it's awesome to see Jordi Fernández pushing him to be more strategic on the court, it's really paying off for both of them and the team 
. maybe we'll even start calling him "the rock" back