This trip to the West Coast was like a parent sending their child to college, and the next time they see them, it’s almost like they’ve become a new person. A parent isn’t sure they like the impact college life has had on their child. The other parent is thrilled that their child is living a new life.

These are the Brooklyn Nets fans after this trip. Their “child” (the Nets) won all three games – tough ones at that – against the Kings, Warriors and Suns. But they finally have their own choice in a generational draft! They enter Friday with a record of 9-10, which is good enough for the No. 7 seed.

My college reference? Well, the parents who are skeptical about college life are the tank commanders. Yes, you! Those who are happy when their child thrives? These are the ones who are happy that the Nets are winning and are in better shape than they have been in the past. Neither is right nor wrong! Just enjoy the growth…

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Back in Brooklyn

Time: 7:30 p.m. ET

Opponent: Orlando Magic (13-7)

Turn on: YES network; WFAN Radio

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Game preview | Brian Fleurantine

The game: Orlando won First Meeting in October. So what will the Nets do without Schröder tonight? Look for Tyrese Martin to get even more playing time. Martin had the game of his life on Wednesday, posting a career-high 30 points and 3-pointers (eight). The Nets have figured things out even when you wouldn’t have thought possible, so it will be interesting to see what Jordi Fernandez and the guys do tonight.

Injuries: No Cam Thomas, Dayron Sharpe, Bojan Bogdanovic, Jaylen Martin or Noah Clowney and now Dennis Schroder is also out for personal reasons. Cam Johnson, Nic Claxton, Dorian Finney-Smith and Jalen Wilson are all questionable. Paolo Banchero and Gary Harris are out for Orlando.

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