Egor Dëmin plays a crucial role in the Nets’ ongoing rebuild and marks their first lottery selection in 15 years.
So, it definitely caught the attention of Brooklyn fans when general manager Shaun Marks mentioned in passing that the Russian rookie is dealing with a plantar fascia issue following an offseason rupture.
“He really wants to be out there,” Marks said. “After the summer league, he’s somewhat limited because of the plantar fascia tear.” He added, “Unfortunately, he couldn’t have the summer he hoped for, but he still enjoyed being around, especially with his size, position, and how he approaches the game. We’re excited to see what he can bring.”
Marks expressed hope that Dëmin would be ready soon.
“He’ll have some limitations at the beginning of camp, but I’m hopeful he’ll build up strength during those first few weeks and get out there,” Marks commented. “Still, we don’t expect him to be available right at the season’s start.”
Dëmin himself seemed to downplay the injury.
“Honestly, I don’t think it’s that serious right now,” Dëmin said. “But it’s all about how much I can do over time.
“I’m not a doctor or anything, so it’s tricky for me to evaluate. What matters now is focusing on what the medical team has recommended and their timeline.”
Meanwhile, rookie Drake Powell missed the Summer League due to a tendon issue in his left knee, while Heywood Highsmith is on the mend after knee surgery.
Both players suggested they could be back by October 22nd.
“My knees are doing well,” Powell mentioned.
Marks added, “He isn’t fully back to five-on-five yet, but I expect him to be involved in camps and drills. It’s okay that he missed open gym sessions; we’re looking forward to seeing him during the actual camp.”
In terms of expectations, the general belief was that Highsmith would miss the season’s opening games, but the veteran wing is aiming for that very opportunity.
“I’m now, what, six and a half hours post-surgery? I’m jogging, spot shooting, and taking light contact,” Highsmith said. “My goal is to be ready for the regular season’s start.”
Nick Claxton, having dealt with pain last season, now aims to maintain better concentration, especially after facing three ejections and multiple technical fouls.
Rookie Ben Saraf is impressed by the composure of the veterans around him.
Manager Jordi Fernandez noted that Noah Crowney has improved, weighing in at 234 pounds, an increase from last year’s 220-225.
A Brooklyn native shared his thoughts on how much the area has evolved.
“Driving through Park Slope and Kensington, it’s all changed so much, with new developments everywhere,” Mann said. “I was picking up some soccer gear at the Brooklyn Basketball Training Center, and it’s just strange to see how the vibe has shifted. But it’s exciting.”
