The coaching staff and teammates are all placing their hopes on Zhang Hao getting on the court.
This isn't because they think Zhang Hao can single-handedly turn the tide, but rather because those with insight can see that they have the ability to arm-wrestle with the Pistons, a newly rising playoff-level team, but only if they perform at their best.
And Zhang Hao is the team's best off-ball shooter. Moreover, Zhang Hao showcased rim protection capabilities in the first quarter that none of the team's other interior players possess.
They aren't that good individually; they need to be combined to be effective.
"Aix, focus on protecting the rim on defense, don't go to help, ignore that, save your energy for offense..."
Randy Whitman assigned Zhang Hao a very simple task, yet it's precisely what the Brooklyn Nets lack the most.
The lineup of Kenny Anderson, Kevin Edwards, Almon Gilliam, Zhang Hao, and PJ Brown was sent onto the court.
