Brooklyn Nets face pivotal January stretch in playoff pursuit
The Brooklyn Nets enter January with a mix of optimism and urgency, having exceeded expectations in December with a commendable 7-4 record. However, the upcoming month presents a daunting challenge, with 17 games on the horizon, including three back-to-backs. Currently sitting 13th in the Eastern Conference, the Nets find themselves five games behind a play-in spot. This month will be crucial—not just for playoff aspirations but also for potential draft positioning.
Navigating a Tough Schedule
The Nets kick off their January slate on New Year’s Day, hosting the Houston Rockets. This matchup against the fourth-place team in the Western Conference will not be easy, especially considering the Rockets are riding a three-game winning streak. Following this, the Nets will quickly face their first back-to-back, as they head to Washington D.C. on January 2 to battle the Wizards. While a win is certainly within reach, a loss might fortify their chances for a better draft position in 2026.
Brooklyn’s schedule continues to ramp up in difficulty with a grueling six-game stretch that includes five teams from the Western Conference. They start with the Denver Nuggets at home, who will be without superstar Nikola Jokic. This game also marks a significant moment for Michael Porter Jr., as he faces his former team for the first time since the offseason trade.
Challenging Back-to-Backs Ahead
The second back-to-back of January looms large, featuring road matchups against the Memphis Grizzlies and the Dallas Mavericks on January 11 and 12, respectively. Both games present formidable challenges, as the Grizzlies and Mavericks are eager to secure their positions in the competitive Western playoff race.
One of the standout matchups of the month occurs on January 14 in New Orleans, where the Nets will meet the Pelicans for the second time. Having won their first encounter, the stakes are raised; a loss could diminish their chances at securing a top draft pick.
Key Divisional Battles and Road Challenges
The Nets’ schedule also includes two critical games against the Chicago Bulls, beginning with a showdown in Chicago on January 18, followed by a home game against the Phoenix Suns on January 19. These matchups are essential, as the Nets will also engage in their only divisional contests of the month, facing off against the New York Knicks on January 21 and the Boston Celtics on January 23.
As January draws to a close, the Nets will embark on a four-game road trip against Western Conference foes. While they may have opportunities to snag victories against a depleted Denver Nuggets squad or a youthful Utah Jazz team, all four opponents are in contention for playoff spots.
This upcoming month could be the ultimate test for the Nets, with the combination of numerous road games, back-to-backs, and a formidable array of competition. Following a surprisingly strong December, it remains to be seen if Brooklyn can maintain their momentum or if they will revert to their expected struggles. Forecasting the month ahead, a record of 4-13 seems plausible.
