Keon Ellis stepped up in Brooklyn’s 114-108 preseason win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday, taking on a larger offensive role under coach Jordi Fernandez. Starting at shooting guard for the second consecutive preseason game, Ellis scored 12 points and recorded one steal in 21 minutes, making the most of an opportunity created by the absence of two projected starters.
The Nets were without forward Michael Porter Jr. (wrist) and center Day’Ron Sharpe against the 76ers, which opened space in the lineup and offensive game plan. Ellis, known for his defensive intensity, applied pressure on Philadelphia’s ball-handlers while also taking more initiative with the ball. He showed a willingness to attack off the dribble rather than just spot up, reflecting a shift in his responsibilities.
Ellis said the chance to expand his offensive contributions was part of what attracted him to Brooklyn when he signed in the offseason. “Honestly, I think the opportunity is there,” he said after the game. “I’ve been on teams where you have a lot of guys who score the ball and that’s just not my job.” With the Nets, Ellis feels there is room for him to do more.
He explained how his offensive involvement varies by game. “Me and Egor [Demin] was talking about it, some games, I’ll shoot two shots, sometimes I might shoot 10. So, whatever the game calls for, that’s just what it is.” Ellis stressed that he approaches every match by focusing on his role, whether that means taking more shots or contributing primarily on defense.
While the Nets’ lineup shifts with injuries and rotations, Ellis is poised to be a flexible option. When Brooklyn is at full strength, he could slot in as a fourth or fifth offensive option depending on how the team sets its starting point guard and Sharpe’s role. For now, Ellis is ready to defend aggressively at the point of attack and stretch the floor, but he has shown he can increase his scoring output if needed.
Coach Jordi Fernandez’s trust in Ellis is evident in the back-to-back starts and the freedom he’s been given to shoot more. Ellis’s performance against a high-profile opponent like the 76ers, featuring LeBron James, adds credibility to his claims that Brooklyn could be the place for him to experience a breakout season.
The Nets have yet to confirm their starting lineup as the regular season approaches, but Ellis’s preseason minutes and assertiveness highlight his growing importance. For now, Ellis is embracing the expanded role and adapting to the demands Fernandez places on him, ready to contribute both on defense and offense as Brooklyn tests its roster depth.
According to Yahoo Sports.