Cavaliers Defeat Nets 131-124 As Brooklyn Struggles With Defensive Issues Early Season

The Brooklyn Nets have started the 2025 NBA season with significant defensive struggles, leading to back-to-back losses. In their season opener, they were defeated 136-117 by the Charlotte Hornets, where poor defense, especially in transition and at the point of attack, was evident as they allowed Charlotte to shoot over 53% from the field and 47% from three-point range. Key Nets players like Michael Porter Jr. and Cam Thomas failed to produce effectively, combining for just 27 points on poor shooting, while rookie players were gaining experience amid the team's rebuilding efforts. In their home opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Brooklyn again fell short 131-124 despite a late rally, with the Cavaliers' Donovan Mitchell leading the scoring. The Nets' coach and players acknowledged the need for improved communication, energy, and defensive execution, emphasizing that the team is still figuring out its identity amid a tanking strategy focused on developing young talent. Overall, the Nets appear committed to rebuilding with a focus on growth and learning from early setbacks rather than immediate success.