Nets’ Rookie Point Guards Uncertainty Looms

The preseason for the Nets has wrapped, but the situation surrounding their three rookie point guards remains up in the air.

Questions abound regarding who will start in the opening game against the Hornets, who will back them up, and who will be waiting for a chance to play.

Coach Jordi Fernandes has chosen not to disclose the depth chart of Egor Demmin, Nolan Traore, and Ben Saraf after the recent training session. It’s understood that this could shift from game to game—nothing is definitive.

“I’m really pleased with all three of them,” Fernandes commented. “Each has played well during the preseason and, although they all have areas to improve, if they manage their time wisely, they can maintain their roles—whether as a starter or a reserve. If someone struggles to meet our expectations, it could create a healthy competition. We hope that everyone will push each other and gain valuable playing time to grow.”

In their four preseason games, Saraf and Traore each started twice, largely because Demin, the highest draft pick, only participated in the last game due to a prior injury.

Saraf’s performance included an average of 6.3 points and 5.5 assists over 20.3 minutes. Meanwhile, Traore averaged 4.5 points and 1.8 assists in 14.7 minutes, with both exhibiting some challenges regarding turnovers—totaling 5.5 per game during the preseason.

Demin, standing at 6-foot-8, made a strong impression in his debut with 14 points, five rebounds, and just two turnovers in his 19 minutes on the court.

Fernandes praised him, saying, “He did an excellent job and appeared calm. While seeing the ball go in is important, basketball is more than just that. He made smart plays, and with fewer turnovers, he got his teammates involved effectively and displayed solid defensive skills. It’s encouraging to see this now, but we expect even more improvement from him and the others.” It’s certainly an exciting time to watch them develop.

The three rookies share a long history, having played together in EuroLeague. Even as they vie for playing time, they are navigating the journey as a group.

“I believe everyone is focused on self-improvement and helping each other improve,” remarked Demin, the No. 8 overall pick. “That’s essential for our success. There’s competition every day in practice. But once we step off the court, we’re best friends, and that’s how it should be.”