'Nets Nic Claxton and Cam Johnson day to day after sitting vs. Mavericks - Internewscast Journal'

The Brooklyn Nets were missing two frontcourt starters, Nic Claxton and Cam Johnson, in their recent loss to the Mavericks. Both players are day-to-day.

The Brooklyn Nets faced a setback in their second game of the season, with two of their frontcourt starters, center Nic Claxton and power forward Cam Johnson, sidelined due to injuries. Both players are considered day-to-day and have not been ruled out for the team's upcoming game against the Charlotte Hornets.

Johnson, who had already missed the preseason due to a hamstring injury, suffered a left calf contusion in the season opener. He was initially listed as questionable on the injury report before being downgraded just two hours before the game against the Mavericks.

According to coach Jacque Vaughn, Johnson's injury was unrelated to his previous hamstring issue. It was an acute injury that occurred at the end of the first game and was only discovered the following day. Johnson attempted to warm up during shootaround but felt discomfort, leading the team to err on the side of caution and keep him out of the game.

Claxton, on the other hand, was dealing with a left ankle sprain that he sustained in the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite finishing the game, he showed up at morning shootaround wearing a boot. Vaughn clarified that it was a precautionary measure to allow Claxton to rest and recover during the crucial 48-hour window after the injury. The team is optimistic that both Johnson and Claxton will benefit from the two-day break before the game against Charlotte.

The absence of Claxton, who is not known for his shooting ability, may have influenced Ben Simmons' aggressive approach to driving and attacking the rim. Simmons contributed 10 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists in the game.

Meanwhile, rookie Cam Thomas continued to impress Vaughn with his attention to detail on both ends of the court. Vaughn expressed his confidence in Thomas and highlighted his growth and engagement in defensive strategies during shootaround. The coaching staff is pleased with Thomas' progress as a third-year player and his commitment to understanding the team's defensive coverages.

The game against the Mavericks held significance for the Nets as it marked their first encounter with Kyrie Irving since his trade request in February. It was also a homecoming for former Mavericks players Dorian Finney-Smith and Spencer Dinwiddie, who were part of the trade deal. Finney-Smith, who had family in attendance, expressed excitement and anticipation for the game, considering Dallas a second home. Dinwiddie also shared his appreciation for the Mavericks organization and the relationships he formed during his time there. He mentioned his personal connection to Texas, as his son was born in San Antonio and his family resides in the state.

Overall, despite the injuries and emotional aspects surrounding the game, the Nets remain focused on their upcoming matchup against the Hornets and hope for the quick recovery of Claxton and Johnson.

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