Nets Coach Bench Players, Preparing for Veteran Leadership

In a recent game, Jordi Fernandez decided to bench point guards Egor Demin and Ben Saraf, a first-round draft selection, during the entire fourth quarter. The move seemed aimed at reinforcing a return led by experienced players Tyrese Martin and Terrence Mann.

“I thought Tyrese was great,” Fernandez commented. “It’s about who helps the team in tough situations. Nothing is guaranteed. I’m recognizing the players who had a good summer and performed well.”

Martin’s performance was notable, contributing eight points and four rebounds before the fourth quarter, finishing the match with 13 points and five boards. On the other hand, Demin has faced challenges lately, and Fernandez pointed out that he needs to overcome the expectations that come with being a lottery pick.

Fernandez continued, addressing Demin’s game, “He needs to realize that. I definitely want him to drive to the paint. It’s clear he poses a threat from beyond the arc, but he can’t just linger there.”

He went on, “If he finishes with several three-pointers and assists, that’s fine, yet I wonder if he can become more aggressive, especially when the other team is in the bonus. It’s about taking the right steps. Honestly, I’m not overly concerned.”

Interestingly, the Nets managed to perform well even without Trae Young, the four-time All-Star, who suffered a sprained right knee early in the game. Young averaged 20.8 points and 9.5 assists, but he only scored six points in his brief seven minutes on the court against Brooklyn.

The injury occurred when Young was positioned under the basket for an inbound play and was inadvertently pushed by Nick Claxton, causing Young to fall awkwardly.

He checked out with just under two minutes remaining in the first quarter and did not return to the game.