The Nets got the message that their effort needs to improve, but even when they played harder and with more energy than they have in almost two weeks they still were blown out.

This isn’t good for their self-esteem or confidence that if they do the right things they can win another game. Of course, you have to take into account the opponent.

The Nets played at Phoenix, and the Suns needed a win. They had lost four straight and didn’t want to extend the skid against the worst team in the NBA. No one wants to be the team that losses to the Nets.

The Suns didn’t need to worry because their star power and execution were far too much for the Nets to handle and resulted in a 118-94 rout.

If the Nets play this way in their next game, at Golden State, maybe they can pull out