At 0-12, the Nets are quickly approaching the worst start in NBA history. They already own the worst start in their franchise history, but with six more losses they would tie the NBA record for worst winless start EVER. No matter how low the expectations are going into a season, that is not something you want to be a part of.

So what’s the problem and what is the solution? The problem, or at least the reason, is that they aren’t winning games is because half the team is hurt, they can’t score, and Lawrence Frank is a terrible coach – but I’ll save the Frank thing for when he gets fired. The solution, well, I’ll get to that.

"Rafer, why am I still a coach???"

Not only has over half the Nets squad been injured in this early season, but it’s been their top 7 players (minus Brook Lopez, thankfully). This is has made it virtually impossible for the Nets to win, and essentially impossible for them to gel and score points on offense. It’s getting to the point when it is a given that no matter how hard they play, they just can’t win. It’s not because they’re a bad team, it’s because they are a depleted team.

Now for the solution. It’s not complicated, but it is quite urgent. The solution is to WIN on SATURDAY against the KNICKS. Period. This may be the only way to avoid a historic beginning to a horrific season.

“But Shooter, that would only be 13 losses, and the record is 18.” I’m glad you mentioned that random person. 13 losses can QUICKLY turn to 17 based on a four-game west coast trip to Denver, Portland, Sacramento, and Los Angeles (and I’m not talking about the Clippers). Historically, the Nets have had HRBL ‘Thanksgiving west coast trips’ each year. So why would this year be any different? Then, they come back home to face a hot Dallas team on December 2^nd, which could make it 18 losses in a row.

So it comes down to Saturday’s matinee against their cross-river rivals. The Knicks are only 2-9 on the season, so if the Nets can beat anybody, it’s NY. Not to mention, if they can’t get fired up for a matchup against their local rivals, then I don’t know what will work. Good luck with that Lawrence.

Why the Nets would win on Saturday: Devin Harris is back. The 2008-09 all-star point guard is 100% from his groin injury and expected to come off the bench for NJ.

Why the Nets wouldn’t win on Saturday: Allen Iverson not joining the Knicks. For once, the Knicks make a good personnel move and keep their TRBL team from getting worse.

I will be at the game on Saturday at the IZOD, rooting on the Nets, because the one thing that can redeem a pathetic 0-12 start is a 1-12 start – with a win against the NY Knicks.

-Shooter

P.S. – I have an inkling that Lawrence Frank will not make it to the west coast if they do not beat the Knicks.