NEW YORK -- Brooklyn Nets shooting guard Joe Johnson played his best game of the season Sunday.
If only he had any help.
Johnson scored a season-high 34 points -- the most he’s ever scored as a Net -- and knocked down a career-high eight 3-pointers in the team’s 109-97 loss to the Detroit Pistons at Barclays Center.
“I’m just taking what the defense gives me,” said Johnson, who came in averaging 13.5 points. “With Deron [Williams] and Brook [Lopez] out I have to be a bit more aggressive.”
Johnson had 13 points in the second quarter -- the most points any Net has scored in a quarter this season.
Brooklyn needs Johnson to continue to play this way -- even when Williams and Lopez come back.
Forwards Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce aren’t having much of an impact at age 37 and 36 respectively.
As a result, Johnson must step up.
In case you missed it: The Nets lost again, and they felt embarrassed by it.
Ohm Youngmisuk has a column about how the two former Boston Celtics must pick up their play.
Coach Jason Kidd feels bad for injured Chicago Bull Derrick Rose.
And my notebook featuring assorted items.
Stat of the day: The Nets have started five different lineups in their last six games.
Question: How, as a fan, are you dealing with your team’s struggles right now?
Up next: Practice Monday. Ohm has you covered.