“I want them to lead authentically; I can’t force anyone out of character,” Fernandez said. “Both are good people with good intentions, so I’m happy they’re giving their best for the group from day one. I have no concerns about that.”
Here’s more on Brooklyn’s situation:
- Forward Chaney Johnson earned his second career start on Friday, filling in for Egor Demin, who is out with a right‑leg bone bruise, Lewis noted elsewhere. The 6‑foot‑7 forward guarded Cade Cunningham in the backcourt, posting six points, a steal and a block in just under 19 minutes. “Chaney’s effort and purpose have been impressive; he’s making the most of his minutes,” Fernandez said. “If everyone matches his intensity, we’ll be fine.”
- Fernandez accepted blame for the team’s fragile mindset after Friday’s defeat, C.J. Holmes reported for the New York Daily News. Brooklyn built a ten‑point early lead but faltered as Detroit surged. “When adversity hits, it’s about our reaction,” Fernandez said. “We saw slumped shoulders and low energy. Those reactions are within our control… The squad is drifting apart, and I’m accountable.”
- Rookie guard Mikel Brown Jr., who logged 23 minutes on Friday, will sit out Sunday’s matchup in Indiana for back management, Lewis tweeted.