As the dust settles on NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas, the Nets emerged with a clearer picture of their historic rookie class and the path ahead in their rebuild. Here are the key takeaways from a pivotal summer for Brooklyn, highlighting standout performances and areas for growth.

EGOR DEMIN’S POTENTIAL

Demin, the No. 8 overall pick, showed enough in Summer League to spark excitement about his potential. He averaged 11.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.0 steals across three games, shooting an impressive 43.5% from 3-point range on 23 attempts. His performance alleviated concerns about his shooting, setting a promising stage for his NBA debut this fall.

Despite playmaking being Demin’s standout skill at BYU, he averaged just 1.3 assists per game in Summer League, recording zero assists in two of his three appearances. Primarily utilized as a wing, he struggled with ball-handling and pressure when given lead-guard duties, revealing areas for growth.

Of Demin’s 27 shots, 23 were 3-pointers, underscoring his need to develop interior scoring. His lack of NBA-ready strength played a role, an area he recognizes for growth, reflecting his coachability. The 19-year-old is a work in progress, but his potential suggests a promising future.

GUN-SHY PERCEPTION

Nolan Traore, the No. 19 pick, averaged 7.3 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists, and displayed explosive speed and rim-attacking aggression. Ben Saraf, the No. 26 pick, averaged 7.0 points, 2.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists, and impressed with his patient, crafty playmaking and positional size. And Danny Wolf, the No. 27 pick, showcased his versatile offensive skill set with an 18-point performance against the Orlando Magic.

However, all three rookies struggled with efficiency, shooting 30.4% or worse from the field — Wolf at 27.3% — and showed hesitancy in taking 3-point shots. The trio combined for 3-of-17 from three-point range, a concerning outcome for a league and franchise that values spacing.

The Nets aim to play up-tempo, prioritize extra passes and rank among the NBA’s leaders in 3-point shot volume. Head coach Jordi Fernandez has already stated that players hesitant to take open shots will find themselves on the bench next to him.

Summer League offers a limited sample, but Traore, Saraf and Wolf fell short of expectations for outside shooting aggression. Perimeter shooting is a critical swing skill for all three, and they must demonstrate comfort and efficiency in taking those shots moving forward to match Brooklyn’s preferred offensive style.

TIMME TIME

Drew Timme, who signed a two-year deal with the Nets in March, dominated in Vegas, averaging 25.3 points — second highest in Summer League behind Utah’s Kyle Filipowski — along with eight rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. Had the Nets posted a stronger record than 1-4, Timme could’ve been a strong contender for Summer League MVP.

Scoring has always been Timme’s strength, but he must prove he can sustain it against NBA defenses, stretch the floor and contribute defensively. His standout performance in Vegas sets the stage for a competitive training camp for the 6-10 forward, who could secure his roster spot with continued excellence.

PLAY SOME DRAKE

Drake Powell, the Nets’ No. 22 pick, sat out Summer League as a precaution after a pre-draft knee injury. His dynamic athleticism would likely have dazzled in Vegas, but fans must wait for his debut when Brooklyn tips off its preseason schedule this fall.

ESPN’s Paul Biancardi noted that Powell, a projected lottery pick in 2026 had he stayed in college, is a high upside steal for Brooklyn. The Nets haven’t had a high-flyer like Powell in years, and his fit alongside Demin, Traore, Saraf and Wolf will be intriguing when he plays.