NEW YORK — The Brooklyn Nets have had a rough go of it this season and one of the reasons why is not having enough consistent production off the bench. One of the players that has brought that production and energy off the bench has been taking his game to the next level.
“Just trying to take advantage of the opportunity,” Nets forward Trendon Watford said after Sunday’s 116-104 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Watford put up 15 points and eight rebounds in Friday’s win as he was one of the few players on the Nets to score at an efficient clip.
“Just bring that spark,” Watford said. “I got in and I think we was down 15-0, 18-0, so I was trying to be aggressive. I strive to be who I am no matter who is out there. So, just trying to be who I am, no matter who’s out there.”
Due to injuries to Ben Simmons, Keita Bates-Diop, and Cam Johnson, Watford has found himself in an expanded role as he has played at least 19 minutes in the past four games. Over that span, he is averaging 14.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting 64.7% from the field and 50.0% from three-point range.
Watford has been showing that he can be an important part of the Nets’ rotation to finish the season and could also be auditioning to come back to Brooklyn for a similar role next season. As long as Watford continues to bring his spark, he should be a Net beyond this season.
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