So, what are your thoughts after seeing the team's first Summer League game?
It's one Summer League game but here's my top 4 takeaway from this game:
#1 - Egor Demin looks set to take a big leap this season
We've been pretty harsh on Egor Demin throughout all of last season because we know he has potential but it's clear he took all of the critiques to heart and used it as motivation this off season. He already looks like a much better player. He's moving better, playing a lot calmer, has much better handles, was aggressive any time he wanted to get to the basket and he was taking threes with a ton of confidence. Also, he just seemed a lot more fluid and as many people highlighted, he has a much better build now in comparison to last season. It's not even a contest, he was the best player on the court in this game and you could tell it was even frustrating for him to play with this Nets Summer League Team because they're not even remotely close to his skill level. It was a beautiful sight to see.
#2 - Drake Powell is a... mess to say the least.
Look, I can fully acknowledge it is one Summer League game. However, Drake Powell's lack of growth and confidence as a player is extremely noticeable specifically due to Egor's development being so blatantly obvious in this game. I don't even think Powell is a horrible player or anything as he has his moments where you can clearly see his defensive prowess and defensive skills but Powell's number one weakness is something I'm not sure the Nets or time in the G-League can change. That weakness is his own energy. Drake Powell just does because he can. He makes so many sporadic decisions on the court because he has the energy to make those sporadic decisions but then he gets upset when most of his poor decision making skills lead to something not going his way as if there's anyone to blame BUT himself. It's like his engine is on go at 100% all of the time because he's afraid of realizing that all of his energy can be used to create more "bag work" that he can rely on during certain points throughout the game.
#3 - Tyler Bilodeau (34) looks like he can legitimately hoop
Out of all the new players on the court in this game, Bilodeau looked like the only one that could legitimately get a crack at some NBA minutes. He was incredibly active while on the court. From rebounding to trying to get blocks to making extra passes and to even calling out plays on the court, he had a real presence on the court in this game. It was disappointing to see none of the other player swing him the ball whenever he was open. My only real disappointment with him was when he opted for the 3 late game instead of running to the basket since the court was wide open for him.
#4 - I think there might be a legitimate rivalry brewing with the Nets and Kings
Say what you want but in the final moments of this game, these young players were legitimately playing with heart, effort and determination. Each and everyone of them wanted to win this game badly. Plus, the actual fans at the game were involved throughout the entire game. If things go well for both teams, there might be a friendly rivalry the naturally builds up over the next 3-5 years. The storyline practically writes itself for both franchises.