Brooklyn Nets Face a Julius Randle-Michael Porter Problem: Who Will Figure It Out?

A difficult start for Brooklyn

The Nets have struggled through their first seven games, winning once and tying for the league’s fewest victories. Many questions that surrounded the team before the season remain open or have received disappointing answers.

There is still time for Brooklyn to improve and enter the postseason race. But identifying a leader has emerged as one issue for the team to address.

Randle and Porter lead scoring

Brooklyn acquired Randle in the offseason, while Porter returned for a second season after a career year. That left the team facing a choice over which player would become its primary scoring option.

Through the first two games of the season, Randle averages 20.9 points per game and Porter averages 20.7. Both are taking 15.1 shots per night, leaving no clear pecking order at the top of the roster.

Choosing a late-game option

Coach Jordi Fernandez faces the task of finding the right balance between the two forwards. Their shared scoring burden may help, but the Nets may need someone to take charge in close games and carry the team for stretches.

Coexistence, but no separation

Randle and Porter have shown they can play together and have combined for more than 40 points per game so far. Still, their similar roles could create difficulties if neither separates himself as the team’s clear leader. There is no easy answer for the Nets, and the unresolved question could affect the team throughout the season.