CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Brooklyn Nets claimed a much-needed victory on Wednesday night, defeating the Charlotte Hornets 104-83 and putting an end to a seven-game losing streak. Keon Johnson was the standout performer for Brooklyn, contributing 18 points in a game where the Nets maintained control, never falling behind.
Jalen Wilson added 15 points to the Nets’ total, while Tosan Evbuomwan chipped in 14 points. Ben Simmons made his return after missing five games due to illness and a back injury, scoring 10 points and grabbing six rebounds while coming off the bench.
On the other side of the court, Miles Bridges led the Hornets with a strong performance, recording 23 points and 13 rebounds. However, the Hornets were missing several key figures including LaMelo Ball, Mark Williams, Brandon Miller, and Josh Green. Vasa Micic also bounced back from an early chest injury to contribute 15 points and seven rebounds.
Charlotte struggled offensively throughout the game, posting a shooting percentage of only 34% from the field and a dismal 29% from beyond the arc, which heavily limited their scoring capabilities.
Highlights from the game include the Nets’ ability to stay competitive despite missing several players of their own, such as Cam Thomas, Bojan Bogdanovic, Noah Clowney, and Cameron Johnson. Even with a disadvantage in rebounding—being outrebounded 52-40—Brooklyn still managed to secure the win.
In terms of player news, the Hornets’ coaching staff is still assessing LaMelo Ball’s recent ankle injury, and Coach Charles Lee did not provide details on how long they expect the All-Star to be sidelined. Williams was also unavailable due to management of a left foot injury.
A key moment in the game occurred when the Nets surged to an early 11-2 lead, eventually extending the margin to a comfortable 21 points as they entered the fourth quarter.
Statistically, the Nets had a solid defensive performance, limiting the Hornets to a mere 30% shooting percentage in the first half, leading the game 53-37 at halftime.
Looking ahead, the Nets will take on the Rockets on Saturday night, while the Hornets will continue their franchise-long nine-game homestand with a matchup against the Clippers on Friday night.
