Nets Summer League: Three Key Takeaways

Egor Demin Shows Promise for a Strong Sophomore Year

After a rookie campaign cut short by plantar fasciitis, Demin arrived in Las Vegas looking rejuvenated. He is currently averaging 21.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 2.5 steals per game while shooting 44.4% from the field and 28.6% from three‑point range. His performance suggests he is already building on last season’s solid debut, a pattern many sophomore players follow when healthy. If the foot issue stays managed, Demin could become a reliable playmaker for Brooklyn next fall.

Mikel Brown Jr. Emerges as a Real Talent

Brown missed most of the California Classic rehabbing a lingering back injury from his college days with Louisville. In Las Vegas he has been cleared for two games and looks noticeably sharper, especially in his defensive matchups against players like Darius Acuff. His ability to operate both as a scorer and a defender has impressed coaches during limited minutes. Should his health hold, Brown could provide depth off the bench for the Nets’ rotation.

Chaney Johnson Earns Rotation Consideration

Johnson, already signed to one of Brooklyn’s three two‑way contracts, is using the summer league as a showcase for Long Island’s G League squad. He is posting 14.7 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 3.3 steals per game while converting 66.7% of his field‑goal attempts and 42.9% from deep. Those numbers make a compelling case for him to see more minutes right away in the NBA. If he continues this efficiency, he could be the surprise addition to the Nets’ roster heading into the season.

With a game against Bruce Thornton and the Houston Rockets looming on Friday, Brooklyn has a chance to stay in the top‑four for the summer league playoffs. The Nets will need to sustain the offensive simplicity that Demin and Johnson bring, while keeping Brown healthy to add defensive intensity. A solid performance Friday could cement these takeaways as the foundation for Brooklyn’s postseason run.