Rookie Demin Sparks Nets' December Turnaround

The Brooklyn Nets are finding their stride in December, indicating positive development as the team aims for future competitiveness. Despite an overall season record that keeps them out of the immediate playoff picture, Brooklyn has achieved a winning record for December, marked by a recent 114-106 road victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday. This current success follows a strong defensive performance, as the Nets have held the league's top defensive rating over their last nine games.

Offensively, while not leading the league, the Nets' scoring has been sufficient to secure wins, showcasing progress in their rebuilding phase. A standout performer in this recent stretch is rookie Egor Demin, the No. 8 overall pick. Over his last four games, Demin has averaged 16.8 points, demonstrating an increased aggressiveness and a more diversified scoring approach, moving beyond his initial reliance on three-point shots.

Demin, a 6-foot-9 point guard, is also contributing to the offense by initiating plays, a role Brooklyn has lacked. The team hopes he can develop into a scorer and facilitator. As the Nets conclude 2025 with two more games, their December momentum, coupled with Demin's continued development and aggressive play, positions them for further success in 2026.