Marc Jackson was stunned. So was Jeff McInnis. The two players whom the Nets acquired in the off-season to be integral parts of the team, did not play in last night's 91-83 loss to the Bobcats.

McInnis wouldn't talk after the game but Jackson, acquired from the 76ers over the summer, said he was hurt by coach Lawrence Frank's decision.

"DNP is real crazy. I'm in a situation where I can't help the team. I had one (DNP) with the 76ers because I was hurt. It only happens since I've been here. Can't help the team. The coach's decision means you don't think he can help the team," Jackson said. "I just want to say I strongly disagree with that."

"When you have a player on your bench and he gets a DNP for no reason, he's not hurt, he's able to go, he's able to contribute and he doesn't play, what does that tell you? What is the coach telling you? Let's be honest. ... This hurts big time. I've never been in a situation where I can't help the team."

Said Frank: "We're giving other guys an opportunity, searching for the right combinations, the right chemistry. (It's not) a knock against Marc and Jeff."

Jackson said he wouldn't request a trade but, before the game, said he wouldn't be devastated if he was traded. He still believes he can play a part in fixing the Nets' problems.

"I know I can do more to help this team but maybe what I have to offer isn't what coach needs for this team. I don't know," Jackson said. "Defensively, I'm a chain link. I can control the tempo of the game defensively with my communication and putting people in the right spot. That's very overlooked with this team. When you have a person who's communicating with you at all times at the defensive end, it helps. I've noticed it helps on other teams I've been on."