Need a Last-Second Loss? Look to the Nets

If you're a Nets fan, you probably keep the Tums close at hand. Last night, the Nets managed to lose in the final moments of the game again. This time to the Philadelphia 76ers, 100-98. It was the 2nd night in a row that the Nets lost in overtime (they lost to the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday) . The only other time the franchise has consecutive overtime losses is in 1977. The loss was the 4th in a row for the Nets. While Vince Carter had 23 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Nets, he missed a game-winning shot in overtime and missed two key shots from the charity stripe.

With two representatives on the Eastern Conference All-Star team, one would think the Nets would be better than their 22-27 record suggests. As arguably the best team in their division, the Nets should easily be in 1st place, not trailing the Raptors and a mere game ahead of the dysfunctional, yet improving, Knicks. Could there be a trade in their future? Carter could be on the block because he can opt out of his contract's final year after the season. The Nets are also without Nenad Kristic for the rest of the season and Richard Jefferson, who is recovering from ankle surgery, until March. Even without a trade, the Nets will probably remain in the playoff picture until Jefferson's return. In the meantime, maybe they can go to a team sports psychologist to get some help with their last minute troubles.

The Nets look to make it 5 straight losses on Wednesday when they play the Atlanta Hawks again. Maybe they'll actually break their losing streak and exact some revenge against Atlanta.

Photo of the New Jersey Nets seniors' dance team AP/Bill Kostroun. At this rate, they could soon be the only reason to watch the Nets.