The Brooklyn Nets remained in Indiana after their final regular-season game, as their first-round playoff opponent was none other than the Pacers.
For the past few years, the Brooklyn Nets had been a powerhouse in the East, enjoying immense success with two trips to the Finals. But they began to decline last season, and this year, the downward spiral had become unstoppable. Even their mid-season trade for Vince Carter, one of the era's four great shooting guards, couldn't turn things around.
The core of the Brooklyn Nets was still Jason Kidd, and their tactical approach hadn't changed significantly. While the roster had seen some changes, in terms of sheer individual talent, their overall strength hadn't fluctuated much.
So why was there such a stark difference in their record?
Team chemistry.
They were missing a crucial tactical component.
