Nets Rookie Egor Demin Shines in First Start
On Friday, Nets rookie Egor Demin took to the court as a starter for the first time in his career.
If Cam Thomas ends up sidelined for a longer stretch, Demin’s impact might grow even deeper.
Demin clocked in at 23 minutes and 3 seconds during the game against the Pistons, scoring eight points, dishing out a team-high seven assists, grabbing three rebounds, and making one steal—all with just one turnover. Not bad for a debut, right?
Fans who are really into this youth movement can watch Demin progress, especially in the pick-and-roll plays.
Coach Jordi Fernandes praised Demin’s performance, saying, “He had seven assists to one turnover against a team that forced us into 20 turnovers. That’s pretty impressive, and he’s only going to improve from here. Those 23 minutes are invaluable. He was aggressive, taking shots and especially three-pointers. I’m really pleased with his playmaking overall. Looking forward to the next game.”
Speaking of the next game, they’ll be up against the Knicks this Sunday.
After dealing with Cade Cunningham, the upcoming challenge will be Jalen Brunson.
Fernandes noted that Demin is still adapting to the game’s physicality and communication. “It can feel fast-paced when you’re new to this level. But with experience and more confidence, things will slow down for him.”
Fernandes added, “He’s sharp—always asking questions and working hard. He’s got great defensive potential, especially with his length. Just look at his three rebounds on Friday; he should excel in making deflections, thanks to his positioning.”
During the game, Demin forced two hasty shots which led to a 9-0 run for the Nets, but Coach Fernandes used that moment for a conversation, which highlighted Demin’s maturity.
Demin shared, “I really appreciate Jordi’s effort to guide us. He communicates clearly about what he expects from us as individuals and as a unit.”
He emphasized the importance of receiving advice from Fernandes before, during, and after games, saying it’s all very beneficial.
Interestingly, Friday marked the first time all five of the Nets’ first-round rookies were healthy enough to play. Demin and Drake Powell saw action against Detroit, while Ben Saraf, Danny Wolfe, and Nolan Traore were busy leading Long Island to a G League opening win.
Saraf came off the bench to score 11 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter. Meanwhile, Wolfe turned things around after a slow start to finish with 15 points and 11 rebounds, and Traore contributed with 12 points and seven assists.
However, Saraf, Wolfe, and Traore remain in the G League and won’t join the team for the Knicks game. Both Thomas (hamstring) and Haywood Highsmith (knee) are also dealing with injuries.
Despite the ongoing rebuild, the Nets are showing promise, averaging a solid 99.7 percent capacity, having filled seats for four out of their five home games so far.
