Just when things had started to look good for Noah Clowney, things went south. Clowney ended last season on a high note, sparking optimism that he might secure a starting forward role. Although that opportunity didn’t materialize, he seized his chance when Dorian Finney-Smith sat out against the New Orleans Pelicans with an ankle sprain. But now all of that can come crashing down.

Noah Clowney appeared to roll his left ankle during Sunday’s matchup against the Sacramento Kings and was helped off the court in the fourth quarter. The injury forced him out of the game, and his availability for Monday’s clash with the Warriors looks doubtful.

At just 20 years and 120 days old, he set a Nets record as the youngest player to drain five three-pointers in one game just a fortnight ago. While Clowney’s season started quietly, his performance didn’t catch anyone in the Nets locker room off guard.

Before the setback, Clowney was on fire, logging 18 points on 5-of-9 shooting, including 5-of-8 from deep, and 3-of-4 from the line. He also contributed two rebounds, a block, and a steal in just 21 minutes. His five-made three-pointers matched his career best.

For now, the severity of the injury remains unclear, leaving fans anxious to see if he’ll return soon.

Is Noah Clowney part of the Brooklyn Nets’ future plans?

Noah Clowney is proving he belongs in Brooklyn’s long-term plans. At just 20, the 6’9” forward with a 7’2” wingspan gives the Nets plenty to get excited about on both ends. He’s averaging 6.7 points and 3.2 rebounds this season while playing 16.2 minutes per game—a modest stat line, but the flashes of brilliance are impossible to ignore.

Take his performance from a few hours ago against the Kings: Clowney dropped 18 points, knocking down five three-pointers. That tied his career high and reminded everyone of his potential as a stretch-four. He’s shooting 34% from deep on 3.8 attempts per game, and while it’s not elite, it’s a solid foundation for a guy who’s just getting started. For a Nets team hungry for development, that’s encouraging.

Defensively, Clowney is all about versatility. Like Nic Claxton, he can switch across positions and protect the rim, though he still needs to bulk up to handle bruisers in the post. Offensively, he’s shown flashes as a rim-roller and catch-and-shoot threat. The next step? Improving his consistency. At times, he’s struggled with efficiency, hitting only 37.6% of his field goals this season.

The road ahead isn’t without obstacles. Brooklyn’s crowded frontcourt means minutes aren’t guaranteed, and veterans like Dorian Finney-Smith and Cameron Johnson are still in the mix. But if Clowney keeps delivering, he could carve out a larger role—possibly as a starter, down the line.

For now, the Nets will take it slow, giving Clowney opportunities to shine off the bench. But don’t be surprised if this young forward becomes a vital piece of Brooklyn’s future sooner rather than later. This kid’s got game—and he’s just scratching the surface.