When James Harden was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in mid-January, the offensive rule he had in mind was Monday night’s 136-125 victory over the Sacramento Kings.
“That was the vision right here: this game itself,” Harden said. “From top to bottom, no matter when your number is called, you have to be prepared to come in and collaborate, no matter what it takes. I think every man has that mindset, and that’s already a quality team. “
The Nets connected on 27 triples in Sacramento, setting a franchise record and falling within two points of the Milwaukee Bucks’ historic record. Seven of the nine Nets who played Monday picked up a 3.
Harden added 29 points, 13 rebounds and 14 assists. It was his fifth triple-double since joining the Nets, already the 20-point triple-double in franchise history, beating Jason Kidd, according to Elias Sports Bureau.
Kyrie Irving, who added 40 points and shot 15 of 22 from the field, led the way for the Nets. He finished firing 9 of 11 from beyond the bow. Irving and Harden joined 112 points Monday, according to ESPN Stats & Information research.
“It’s a movie,” Harden said of Irving. “It’s like a show. Sometimes I forget I’m on the track. He makes them seem effortless. It’s one of the reasons I’m here.”
Irving’s nine triples were the second most in a contest of his career. He did not want to talk to reporters after the match.
“He’s a wizard with the ball,” Nets striker Jeff Green said of Irving. “I’ve said it once, and I love to see him when he’s in that area. He’s a hell of a player, and I’m glad he’s on his side and not on the opposite side this year. right now. “
The Nets ’previous 24-point record was set in 2018 against the Chicago Bulls. Against the Kings, Green tied that franchise level by a 3 over the break assisted by Harden with just over eight minutes left in the fourth quarter. Harden overshadowed the Nets ’previous mark shortly after with a 25-foot 3 off a Green pass.
“That’s the kind of offensive exit we’re capable of,” Brooklyn coach Steve Nash said after the game. “For us, it’s really the defense we’re trying to keep working with.”