Egor Demin’s Rookie Season Cut Short by Injury

Egor Demin’s rookie season came to an abrupt end due to plantar fasciitis.

Following a successful procedure, the Nets guard is now focusing on his rehabilitation as the offseason approaches.

“Everything went well,” said the 20-year-old Demin in his first remarks after the season’s end. “Right now, it’s all about rehabilitation. I aim to be back on the court as soon as the season wraps up.” He added, “I hope things progress positively so I can get back to work quickly.”

Details about the procedure on the Russian guard’s left foot remain vague. Both Demin and Brooklyn coach Jordi Fernandez confirmed its success but withheld specifics.

Dr. Andrew Brief from Ridgewood Orthopedic Group explained the various nonsurgical treatments available. “Cortisone is often the first injectable option, but alternatives like PRP or stem cell injections can also be utilized. If conventional methods fail, PRP could become part of the treatment plan,” he mentioned.

Demin, who was Brooklyn’s first lottery pick in 15 years, had been grappling with this injury since last offseason and faced sporadic issues through his rookie year.

“The procedure was successful. While I’m not equipped to delve into the details, it was meant to address his plantar fasciitis and determine the best path for his recovery and strengthening,” Fernandez remarked ahead of the Nets’ 121-92 loss to the defending champion Thunder. “Everything seems to have worked out, and he should be good to go at some point during the offseason, which is exciting. He’ll have ample time to improve before summer league.”

“Yeah, the summer league is definitely the goal. However, for now, we are navigating the next steps. There’s no strict timeline since he isn’t on the court right now, but we believe it will happen eventually,” he continued.

Demin’s performance this season was commendable, averaging 10.3 points, 3.3 assists, and 3.2 rebounds. He made history as the first Net to earn a spot in the Rising Stars at the All-Star Weekend since 2019.

Remarkably, he set a record for NBA rookies by hitting 3-pointers in 34 consecutive games. Sadly, plantar fasciitis overshadowed his achievements.

“I’m just eager to get back on the court. You know, sometimes as an athlete, when you find out you can run, you just dive right in, thinking that’s enough,” Demin reflected. “And it’s not that anyone’s holding me back from playing while hurt—it’s just me trying to recover as quickly as possible.”

“Playing a full season was a new experience for me as a rookie. At times, it felt overwhelming. After the All-Star events, I thought, ‘Wow, what an honor!’ But then it hit me—I’ve still got work to do. Despite the season not finishing as hoped, it was long and trying. It’s important, not just for my feet, but really for anyone involved in sports.”

“I’m going to view this as a positive step, not a break,” he said. “It’s allowed me to focus on training without the pressure of playing through pain. It’s about maximizing what I can achieve off the court. While it’s tough not to play, I see the benefits to this time away from the game. Everything happens for a reason, and I try to approach it all with intention.”