After starting the season 3-2, the Nets have dropped their past two games in deflating fashion.
Coach Kenny Atkinson said the team came together Monday morning to discuss its struggles, particularly in a third-quarter meltdown against the Nuggets on Sunday. During Denver’s 40-21 run, players hung their heads and consequently failed to stop the bleeding.
“We talked about it today,” Atkinson said. “These are days when you get better I think — when you have to address these issues.”
The Nets had a similar conversation ahead of their surprising 112-107 victory over the Cavaliers last week, which came a day after a tough loss to the Magic.
“We always respond well [to these talks],” forward DeMarre Carroll said. “We responded well before we played Cleveland. I’m pretty sure we’ll respond well [Tuesday against Phoenix]. Kenny has a way of communicating with his players — he does a great job of that. I think guys will come out real hungry [Tuesday] and play a little bit harder.”
Atkinson credited general manager Sean Marks with assembling a high-character group that willingly accepts criticism.
“I think they want to be coached,” he said. “Even the new guys — Allen [Crabbe] and D’Angelo [Russell]. They are like, ‘Coach us.’ They want it. And that’s part of our culture.
“I’ve been in the NBA awhile. There are some guys that are resistant to it. We don’t have that. We have guys who want to be coached and want to get better.”
Quincy Acy (left groin strain) has been ruled out for Tuesday. Atkinson said he will subsequently be listed as day-to-day.
Carroll, who tweaked his ankle versus the Knicks on Friday, is questionable. A decision will be made at the morning shootaround.