Egor Demin, the Brooklyn Nets' first lottery pick in 15 years, showcased an evolved game during his recent California Classic debut. The 20-year-old guard scored 23 points against the Kings, demonstrating a more muscular frame that translated into aggressive drives to the basket.
During the game on Saturday, Demin shot 8-of-15 from the field, secured seven rebounds, and finished with a team-best plus-14. His performance notably included confidently attacking the rim, even against No. 7 overall pick Darius Acuff Jr. This aggressive play signifies a potential step forward for the young guard, addressing previous critiques about his ability to penetrate defenses.
Last season, questions lingered about Demin's shooting accuracy, but he defied expectations by setting NBA rookie 3-point shooting records. Now, the focus shifts to his ability to get to the rim, a weakness he appears to be actively addressing through increased physicality. Demin's participation in the summer league, following a season with the Nets, suggests a larger role as he continues to develop.