Egor Demin took the starting point guard spot for the Brooklyn Nets in Thursday’s preseason win over the Philadelphia 76ers, logging 22 minutes and posting 13 points and five assists. With several regulars sidelined, including Michael Porter Jr. and Day’Ron Sharpe, Demin stepped up to help orchestrate the offense alongside forward Julius Randle.
The former BYU Cougar has long been viewed by the Nets as a player with high potential beyond just passing. Since being drafted two years ago, Brooklyn has envisioned him growing into a versatile contributor. Demin himself said he sees his future as one of adaptability, ready to fit wherever the team needs him most.
“I think back to last year in Summer League and even before that on the pre-draft [process] when I was working out with Brooklyn, I’ve been saying at all times to Jordi and the other coaches that I see myself as a very versatile player in the future and that I want to be anywhere I can benefit the team,” Demin explained after the game. Head coach Jordi Fernandez has already given him opportunities in different offensive roles this preseason.
Demin added that winning remains his priority regardless of the specific stat line. “I’m a winner, so I want to win as much as I can. If that means for me to have 25 assists and five points, or whatever that means for me, I want to win first,” he said. “Working on certain things obviously helps a lot to be even more versatile whether I’m off or on the ball. That’s the goal, for sure, is being able to be everywhere.”
Brooklyn’s lineup against Philadelphia lacked depth with rookies Mikel Brown Jr. and Joshua Jefferson unavailable, putting greater responsibility on Demin to generate scoring chances. His performance under those conditions will likely influence the coaching staff’s assessment as the Nets approach the regular season.
Since his rookie year, Demin has seen action both as a ball-handler and in off-ball roles. His comments underline a willingness to fill multiple positions on the floor, giving the team tactical flexibility. That adaptability might prove valuable as Brooklyn balances its roster and rotations.
The Nets’ official Twitter account shared a clip praising Demin’s effort with the caption “STRONG TAKE BY EGOR” soon after the game. Demin’s showing on Thursday was a reminder of the promise the organization has invested in him.
Brooklyn’s preseason continues with a focus on evaluating younger players like Demin, who has repeatedly expressed his desire to contribute wherever called upon. His latest outing reinforced that message in tangible terms.
According to Yahoo Sports.
