08-07-2025
Former NBA scout reacts to Nets' 2025 NBA Draft first-round picks
The Brooklyn Nets went into the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft on Wednesday with five first-round picks and plenty of rumors surrounding what their next move would be. To the surprise of anyone watching the Draft, Brooklyn not only made all five picks, but they also took BYU guard Egor Demin with the eighth overall pick, much earlier than pundits. A former NBA scout understands the selection.
"I think he's a really quality player. I really like his skillset, I really like his game. The big question mark is how well he can shoot it, but he's got size, he's got the skill," Michael VandeGarde, former NBA scout for the Philadelphia 76ers, said in a conversation with Nets Wire. VandeGarde, like most people who have been following this draft class, believe that Demin has talent, but it was still shocking to see Brooklyn take him as high as they did.
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"I think the versatility that he brings to the table and his passing ability is going to be a real asset value in the NBA," VandeGarde continued. "So, he's spotted in that range. I think he's got quality, quality upside if his shooting numbers improve. I think it's a great pick. Only time will tell."
Demin, 19, has been regarded by many NBA Draft experts as the best passer in the class, meaning that the Nets may have their point guard of the future if he is able to improve his flaws, most notably his shooting. Demin is coming off a 2024-25 season in which he averaged 10.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game while shooting 41.2% from the field and 27.3% from three-point land.
"His talent is undeniable, as his combination of size and passing ability is rare. He's far away from reaching his physical potential, but his upside has obvious appeal and time is on his side," ESPN's Jonathan Givony said during his section on Demin. At the moment, it seems that head coach Jordi Fernandez and the rest of the player development/coaching staff have their work cut out for them.
*Editor's note: VandeGarde is currently involved with CoachTube, a digital platform that offers online coaching courses from current and former athletes as well as prominent coaches at all levels. The site is geared towards athletes looking to upgrade their development as well as coaches looking to enhance their understanding.
This article originally appeared on Nets Wire: Former NBA scout reacts to Nets' 2025 NBA Draft first-round picks
