Brooklyn Nets coach Steve Nash recently expressed optimism about the much-awaited return of Kevin Durant. The star forward has been sidelined for weeks now due to a knee injury. Not coincidentally, the Nets have been on a downward spiral since his exit.

On Thursday night, in their first game back following the All-Star break, the Nets suffered another embarrassing loss, as they got routed by the Boston Celtics, 129-106. Nash once again had a depleted lineup, with KD, Kyrie Irving, Ben Simmons, Joe Harris all out due to various reasons.

In a report by ESPN, Nash revealed the top four priorities they need to address amid their awful stretch.

Nash said health is the “1, 2, 3 and 4” things the Nets need to fix.

Hard argue with the former two-time MVP about that. Before the season, the Nets were picked by many prognosticators as the heavy favorite to win the title this season. But with a revolving door of injured players, Irving's vaccination brouhaha, and Harden's exit, things have gone south for the squad.

With the entry of Simmons, Seth Curry, and Andre Drummond, plus the acquisition of Goran Dragic, the Nets hope they can regain their rhythm and string up a couple of wins ahead of the NBA Playoffs. Health permitting, of course.

With the loss to the Celtics, the Nets fell to 31-29. Their next game won't get easier, as they face the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday.