Nets snap home losing streak with Trendon Watford's heroics

On April 8, 2025, the Brooklyn Nets hosted the New Orleans Pelicans at their home arena in New York, aiming to break their five-game home losing streak. This matchup was significant for the Nets, who were struggling with a disappointing season record of 26 wins and 53 losses. Meanwhile, the Pelicans were sitting at last place in the standings with a record of 21 wins and 58 losses, facing severe challenges due to multiple injuries to their key players, including Zion Williamson. As the game unfolded, Trendon Watford led the Nets with a remarkable 22 points, showcasing his skills on the court and ultimately helping his team achieve the much-needed victory. In the first half, the teams walked a tightrope, engaging in an intense back-and-forth competition. The Nets capitalized on solid contributions from Drew Timme, who added 16 points and nine rebounds. As the game progressed, the key moment unfolded in the third quarter when the Nets erupted for 43 points—their highest-scoring quarter of the season. This surge allowed them to establish a double-digit lead, leaving the Pelicans to fight hard to stay competitive throughout the game. As the game drew to a close, the Pelicans demonstrated resilience. Antonio Reeves and Karlo Matkovic both delivered impressive performances, scoring 17 points each to maintain pressure on the Nets. When New Orleans made a late push, closing the gap to four points late in the fourth quarter, Tosan Evbuomwan answered back with a crucial three-pointer to seal the victory for Brooklyn, demonstrating the team's ability to remain composed under pressure. The game concluded with the Nets winning 119-114, marking a significant turnaround for the franchise at home. This victory allowed the Nets to complete a season sweep of the Pelicans, the first time they achieved this since the 2021-22 campaign. The Nets' successful execution from beyond the arc played a pivotal role in their performance, finishing with 17 successful three-pointers out of 40 attempts, a stat driven by the impressive first-half shooting from Dariq Whitehead. The result not only contributed to lifting the spirits of the Nets owners and fans alike but also revealed the Pelicans' ongoing struggles as they continued their road trip at Milwaukee, having now lost four straight games and significantly impacting their position moving forward.