{
  "id": 8147200,
  "title": "Could the Nets be better than the Bucks and Bulls this NBA season?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/could-the-nets-be-better-than-the-bucks-and-bulls-this-nba-season",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-18T01:50:17.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/could-nets-better-bucks-bulls-015017294.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Brooklyn Nets entered the 2026 NBA offseason with the aim of enhancing their roster after a disappointing 20-62 season in the 2025-26 campaign. The team made some surprising moves this summer, acquiring former Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle. However, it remains uncertain if the Nets will outperform their low expectations, according to Ricky O Donnell's rankings for the Eastern Conference.\n\nO Donnell believes Brooklyn could surpass the Chicago Bulls (No. 14) and Milwaukee Bucks (No. 15) in the standings. He credits head coach Jordi Fernandez for his players' increased competitiveness, and anticipates a potential sophomore season breakthrough for Julius Randle. O Donnell also highlights the arrival of Egor Demin, Day’Ron Sharpe as a possible center upgrade, and rookie guard Mikel Brown Jr., all contributing to a more competitive Nets team.\n\nDespite the addition of these veterans, the Nets are expected to be one of the worst teams in the league, a prediction O Donnell disagrees with. He emphasizes the importance of developing young players on the roster, while also striving for multiple wins. The matchup between the Nets and the rebuilding teams, particularly the Bulls and Bucks, will be an intriguing aspect of the upcoming NBA season.",
  "summary": "The Brooklyn Nets are projected by many to be one of the worst teams in the league this season, but could they beat out the Bulls and Bucks?",
  "key_points": [
    "Brooklyn Nets aim to improve after 20-62 2025-26 season.",
    "Head coach Jordi Fernandez credited for increased competitiveness.",
    "Julius Randle and new additions expected to boost team performance."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}