NET NOTES

Nothing like a crisis situation after just two games to get the juices flowing.

The Nets are fully aware of the mess they’ve made of their first two games, each a less-than-stellar defeat. And so they have turned to game three tonight at home against the Raptors as, well, more than just another third game in a string of 82.

“It’s a big game for us,” said Kendall Gill, looking long term and beyond the short term – as well as real recent history which included a disappointing opening night crowd of 13,051 despite a quality opponent, Indiana. “We’ve got to win because when it comes down to playoff time, two wins can separate you from being out and this. [Toronto] is a team that might be right there with us so we have to take care of business.”

Of course, an 0-3 record, though hardly reason to panic could simply justify some of the rampant “same old Nets” thinking that always flows in the face of any setback. And the Nets simply need something to feel good about themselves. It’s tough building self-esteem when it always goes something like, “I like the way we didn’t quit when we were down three dozen … ” Plus, a streak with six of seven games on the road is upcoming.

“We’re just not getting after it like we know how to. (Tonight) will be different,” vowed Stephon Marbury. “We’ll play with a lot more energy, a lot more passion. We’re not playing with the same flair. When we get that back, we’ll be all right. This is a very important game. We’re at home and we’re not getting off to a good start, even though it’s only two games.” *Most of the Nets attended the gathering in Newark yesterday with President Clinton. Jayson Williams, as the Nets spokesman, was a big hit with the students at Newark’s Malcolm X. Shabazz High, who shouted protests when Williams offered to keep his talk short. “Jayson was Jayson,” said team president Michael Rowe … Major League Baseball, NFL and NBA offices also were represented, but not NHL. Nets, of course, intend to move to Newark by 2003.