Egor Demin’s Struggles in Nets’ Loss to Jazz

Egor Demin faced challenges during the game against Utah on Thursday night, clocking in 20 minutes and 23 seconds despite having a tough time with three points and four fouls. The Nets ultimately lost 123-110 at Barclays Center, and it wasn’t until the fourth quarter, about 3 minutes and 32 seconds in, that he shifted his playmaking responsibilities to teammates Ben Saraf and Tyrese Martin.

Coach Jordi Fernandez acknowledged Demin’s difficulties, explaining that the young player had been feeling unwell and plans to have him back for the game against New Orleans on Saturday.

“He didn’t have much energy,” Fernandez said. “He was dealing with some respiratory issues. I thought he really tried hard, but it was a tough situation. My concerns for him were valid; he was cleared to play but had a lot on his plate.”

“It just wasn’t his night. He needs some rest and good sleep, and I’m confident he’ll come back strong. He holds himself to high standards.”

Danny Wolf contributed with 17 points and a career-high nine rebounds, showing promise after being recalled from the G League. His recent performance has also been solid, averaging 12.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists over the last five games and hitting 44 percent from beyond the arc.

However, he was also responsible for some turnovers, including a key mishap when he attempted a risky pass that was intercepted, allowing the Jazz to level the score at 98-98. The Nets couldn’t recover from that point.

“We’ve discussed being more efficient with our playmaking. He had that one questionable moment. It will improve with experience. He’s very intelligent on the court,” Fernandez commented positively about Wolf while also emphasizing room for improvement.

“Clearly, we had too many turnovers in the last game,” Wolf admitted. “Today, I did a better job of managing passes, except for that one late in the fourth that I’d like to take back. As long as the coach trusts me, it’s my job to handle the ball without mistakes.”

Noah Clowney stepped up in the absence of Michael Porter Jr., scoring 29 points, which ties his career-high. He reflected on the adjustments needed when Porter isn’t on the court.

“We must be more assertive whenever he’s out. In the three games without him, I felt like I was the focus for the defense. It’s a different experience being treated as the primary option, something I haven’t dealt with since high school. It’s an adjustment for sure.”