One thing is really unclear: Why are so many fans not optimistic about the Nets? Some foreign media even said that the probability of the Celtics advancing is greater than the probability of the 76ers advancing in the first round. Personally, I think that the Nets' first-round victory over the Celtics should be no suspense, and at most the Nets can end the first round 4-2.
The regular season record is actually not too informative, because there are too many factors that affect the regular season record. Like the difference in epidemic prevention policies and the team's injuries, they have greatly affected the performance of the regular season. The Nets' strength is definitely not what the regular season record reflects.
The playoffs and the regular season are completely different games, the playoffs have 2 characteristics, can maximize the role of the superstar, can weaken the role of the head coach, especially for those who are not very good coaches on the field, the playoffs can cover up his weaknesses very well.
Let's start with point 1: The playoffs are bigger, which means more defensive intensity. Fouls blown in the regular season may not be blown in the playoffs. This is why Harden's key playoff veterans did not play well. At this time, the team relies on the hard solution ability of the superstar. In this regard, Durant and Irving are much stronger than the Celtics' double probe.
The second point is the manager's problem. In the regular season, few teams specialize in studying opponents, and most of them play according to their own routines, and the head coach's adaptability will be very important at this time. But the playoffs are playing in series, and it's definitely about thoroughly studying the opponent's routine. The head coach with poor adaptability will make various plans in advance and think of ways to deal with them in advance. Therefore, the manager with poor coaching ability will narrow the gap between the playoffs and the famous coach.
I think the Nets are very confident inside. Simmons will reportedly make a comeback around G4. I think it's the Nets already thinking about Round 2. The Nets are confident that they can build a big advantage in G4, allowing Simmons to come out and find the feeling. After all, playing the Celtics, Durant + Irving is enough. If you play the Bucks in the second round, you need Simmons to contribute!