Egor Demin fuels Brooklyn Nets’ resurgence in December
The Brooklyn Nets may still be searching for their place in the playoff conversation, but December has injected a spark into their season. With a current record of 9-19, the Nets have found a rhythm this month, boasting a 6-3 record. Their most recent achievement was a hard-fought 114-106 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday, showcasing their potential as they approach the holiday break.
Defensive Dominance
As the Nets gear up for the festive season, they have established themselves as a defensive powerhouse. Over the last nine games, they hold the top defensive rating in the NBA at 102.8. This impressive feat has come as they consistently limit their opponents to an average of just 102.7 points per game. While their defensive prowess has shone bright, the same cannot be said for their offense, which ranks a modest 22nd in offensive efficiency this month. Yet, the team is finding ways to win, a promising sign as they navigate the complexities of rebuilding.
Emerging Star: Egor Demin
Amid this resurgence, one player has emerged as a key contributor: Egor Demin, the No. 8 overall pick in this year’s draft. Over his last four games, Demin has been a revelation, averaging 16.8 points, three rebounds, and three assists. In the standout win against Philadelphia, he delivered a polished performance with 20 points, two rebounds, and five assists, all while shooting an impressive 55% from the field.
Demin’s evolution as a scorer has been noteworthy. Initially known for his three-point shooting, the 19-year-old has diversified his offensive portfolio. He is now unafraid to take mid-range shots and drive to the basket, showcasing a more aggressive approach. After attempting just eight free throws across 13 games in November, he has already surpassed that total with 10 free throws in December.
Facilitating the Offense
In addition to his scoring exploits, Demin has taken on a greater role in orchestrating the Nets’ offense. With the team still lacking a true point guard to lead the charge, there is burgeoning hope that Demin can fill that role, providing both scoring and playmaking. He is averaging nearly four assists per game while logging just under 24 minutes on the court.
While Michael Porter Jr. has been the standout star for the Nets this season, Demin’s recent contributions have added depth to the roster. As he settles into his role, he has proven to be a reliable option, particularly as a spot-up shooter. His performance has placed him second among rookies in both three-pointers made and attempted, trailing only Kon Knueppel.
As the Nets look to build on their recent momentum, they will close out December with two additional games. The team’s trajectory is encouraging, and the emergence of young talent like Egor Demin may be pivotal in their quest for greater competitiveness in the league.
