“ It is undoubtedly one of the most unique and tough training camps that I have experienced in 12 years. » Dennis Schroder sets the tone when he talks about the Nets' first practices. Jordi Fernandez visibly sat on the Brooklyn bench with one goal in mind: to make his team capable of responding to the physical challenge, or even imposing it on their opponent.
“Everyone is in it. The coach and assistants do an excellent job keeping us organized, together. It's great », continues the German playmaker. “Effort and intensity are very important”adds Cam Johnson.
It wasn't entirely a surprise to Dorian Finney-Smith, who did his homework before the new coach arrived in Brooklyn.
“We are going to be in great physical condition”underlines the former Mavericks. “People I talked to around the league told me good things about him, so I knew what to expect. I knew he was a hard worker, who wants us to be competitive. This is what he asks of us. »
Work harder to change the culture
This is obviously what every coach demands of his group every season. The Canada coach undoubtedly knows that his Nets will not always have the talent necessary to fight against better teams. However, if they are physically fit, they will be able to resist.
“We do a lot of rehearsals, a lot of very physical things. We're changing the culture a little. We apply all-round pressure in defense and, when we are in attack, we are attacked from the throw-in. So it's great. You have to adapt”says Dennis Schroder.
“There is a lot of running, movement. We are asked to put pressure on all terrain, to play hard”insists Cam Johnson. “It’s easy to slack off when you’re not fully physically fit. So yes, we play despite being tired, everyone is. We are empowered on this point, which will allow us to play at a high level physically. »
All this physical work must coincide with an intense and fast style of play, symbolized by the Ben Simmons – Dennis Schroder duo. “We’re trying to find our identity: being the most physical and fastest team on the floor”concludes Ziaire Williams.
