Noah Clowney is adjusting to a diminished role with the Brooklyn Nets after starting 60 games last season at power forward. With Julius Randle expected to take over as the team's primary option at that position, Clowney has focused on earning minutes off the bench during the preseason.

Clowney has posted solid performances following a quiet start to the exhibition schedule. In a recent victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, he scored 11 points on 3-for-4 shooting, including 2-for-3 from three-point range, and finished with a plus-12 rating. He followed that with a 15-point effort in a win against the Washington Wizards, hitting 5-of-8 field goals and 4-of-6 from beyond the arc. Additionally, Clowney contributed four assists and one steal without committing a turnover.

Nets head coach Jordi Fernández praised Clowney’s consistent play throughout training camp and preseason games. Fernández noted the team's emphasis on challenging Clowney to improve his rebounding, while also highlighting his ability to manage the ball effectively. “Four assists to zero turnovers, that’s pretty impressive,” Fernández said. “He’s just been very good — not too high, not too low. He’s always ready.”

The forward’s steady contributions have helped him secure a spot in a deep rotation behind Randle as the Nets prepare for the regular season.

Meanwhile, rookie Mikel Brown Jr., the team’s No. 6 overall pick, is expected to make his preseason debut soon after recovering from an ankle injury sustained three weeks ago. The 20-year-old from Orlando resumed full practice over the weekend and participated in 5-on-5 drills on Monday morning. Brown plans to have about 20 family members and friends in attendance at the upcoming game against the Miami Heat.