You can make whatever you want out of the preseason, in your own shape, way or form; but it’s important for several different reasons in Brooklyn. This is a rebuilding team with guys fighting for starting spots, rotation spots, yes, even roster spots. A first-time head coach is trying to establish an identity. The list goes on.

Once the regular season is tipped off on Oct. 23, it will be all about the future, you know, like the Draft Lottery and beyond. Tonight is about the moment at hand and all those questions.

All things said, my biggest takeaway is that Jordi Fernandez is holding players accountable, both veterans and young guys. After Wednesday’s loss, Fernandez spoke about Dennis Schroder’s struggles. “We went from two point guards to one. That showed in taking care of the ball. But, the reality is our true point guard, Dennis (Schroder), had five turnovers,” Fernandez said. “We cannot afford for him to play like this…”

In the same postgame scrum, he mentioned how Noah Clowney “did not fight hard enough.”

Accountability is important and something this organization needs. We’ll see how the players feel about it as the season goes on.

Moving on…

TIME: 7:30 p.m. ET

OPPOSITION: Toronto Raptors

TUNE IN: YES Network on TV.

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From our game preview…

The Game/Injuries: Ben Simmons was rested in Philly and he’s expected back tonight, but we still don’t know the fate of Nic Claxton who the Nets have said they want to see in at least one preseason game despite a hamstring issue. Also uncertain is Killian Hayes, the 6’5” point guard (hip) who’s fighting for a job.

For the Raptors, R.J. Barrett and Ja’Kob Walter (both shoulder) are out as is Immanuel Quickley (thumb.)

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