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Nets end preseason on sour note in ugly loss to Heat as defense struggles

Brooklyn concluded their exhibition schedule with a 144-128 defeat against Miami. Despite a standout 27-point performance from Michael Porter Jr.

and promising contributions from Egor Demin, Nolan Traore, and Mikel Brown Jr., the Nets struggled significantly on the defensive end. Head coach Jordi Fernandez expressed dissatisfaction with the team's inability to protect the paint, noting that they surrendered 62 points inside and allowed the opposition to shoot 31-for-40 from that area.

Giannis Antetokounmpo proved difficult to contain, recording 20 points, 15 rebounds, and nine assists in just 23 minutes of play. The game also saw Day'Ron Sharpe hampered by early foul trouble, while Julius Randle and Moritz Wagner finished with negative plus-minus ratings.

Davion Mitchell required medical attention for a facial injury during the contest.

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