The New Jersey Nets took a break from the Dwight Howard drama long enough to beat the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night. The 98-84 win was the first in two games for the Nets, who have become a regular presence in the Howard saga.
New Jersey out-shot and out-rebounded the Raptors, and seemed no worse for wear without Deron Williams in uniform. Gerald Green led the team with 26 points. He was one of five players in double figures. Kris Humphries had a double-double with 16 points and 21 rebounds.
James Johnson and Jerryd Bayless led the Raptors with 16 points each.
The Nets will see Howard on Friday, when they visit Orlando. At 15-29 overall, the playoffs seem like a long-shot, but they are just four games behind the eighth spot.
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