PORTLAND, Ore. — Cam Johnson made a successful return from a five-game hiatus due to a right ankle sprain, contributing 24 points in the Brooklyn Nets’ 132-114 triumph over the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night.
Keon Johnson and Noah Clowney also played pivotal roles for the Nets, each scoring 20 points, helping the team snap a five-game losing streak.
On the Blazers’ side, Scoot Henderson had a standout performance, netting a career-high 39 points, which included eight successful 3-point shots.
Ben Simmons, although dealing with issues related to lower back pain and a sore left knee, started the game and recorded five points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds. However, he will be absent for the upcoming game against the Clippers.
The Blazers’ rookie Donovan Clingan faced challenges during the game; he was struck in the face late in the first quarter and had to leave for the locker room. Though he returned briefly, he exited again in the closing moments due to another hard fall.
The Nets established a strong lead of 16 points during the first half, but Portland managed to narrow the score to 66-61 by halftime. Brooklyn maintained control for the remainder of the matchup.
For the Nets, D’Angelo Russell, suffering from a shin issue, was on the court, but Nic Claxton missed the game due to hamstring discomfort. On the Trail Blazers’ roster, they were missing forward Deni Avdija, who injured his ankle during practice on Monday. Toumani Camara stepped up for Portland, achieving a career-best 23 points.
A crucial moment in the game occurred when the Blazers closed in to 112-103, thanks to a basket from Camara with 5:28 left. However, Russell countered with two free throws and a long-range three-pointer, widening Brooklyn’s advantage. Shortly after, a three-pointer from Keon Johnson with 3:44 remaining brought the score to 120-105, effectively sealing the victory.
A key statistic from the game highlights Henderson’s explosive first quarter, where he scored 17 points, including four 3-pointers. He hit his first eight shots, surpassing his previous season high of 25 points by halftime.
Looking ahead, the Nets are set to visit the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday, while the Trail Blazers will host the Clippers on Thursday.
