Trendon Watford excels with D'Angelo Russell sidelined

The Brooklyn Nets played without their starting point guard D’Angelo Russell for the second consecutive game on Monday against the Dallas Mavericks. Russell has been dealing with right ankle soreness and has missed 15 games this season. In his absence, forward Trendon Watford has stepped up. Over his last five games, he has averaged 14.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, and three assists. He is shooting 51% from the field and contributing important playmaking for the team. Coach Jordi Fernandez praised Watford for his efficiency and leadership on the court. Watford played a major role in recent games against the Indiana Pacers, scoring 26 points and grabbing five rebounds in a strong performance on Saturday, despite being ejected in a previous match. Watford expressed his commitment to his team, saying he felt he could have helped secure a win if he had not been ejected. He is focused on being impactful and supporting his teammates as they look ahead to upcoming home games against the Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Clippers.