Brooklyn’s first-round pick Mikel Brown Jr. opened his Las Vegas Summer League schedule on Friday with 20 points, pouring in 16 after halftime while adding three assists, two steals and a block.
“I love the game of basketball,” Brown said after the game. “When my teammates look successful, it brings me joy … I’m a savant when it comes to this stuff.”
Growing backcourt chemistry
Second-year guard Egor Demin, chosen in the 2025 lottery, praised Brown’s shot-making and craftiness. “He’s extremely talented,” Demin noted. “His shooting, his ability to create his own shot, how shifty he is—he’s gonna give defenders a lot of trouble.”
Demin has added 13–15 pounds of muscle since last summer and is attacking more aggressively. “No matter how physical the defender is, he’s going to get to his spots,” Brown said of his backcourt partner.
Powell’s slow start
Rookie wing Drake Powell has struggled offensively, hitting just 1-for-17 in two California Classic games. With the Nets facing an Oct. 31 deadline to exercise his 2027/28 team option, Summer League coach Dutch Gaitley is keeping instructions simple: “If you’re open, shoot it. If you’re not open, drive it.”
Randle ready to lead
Veteran forward Julius Randle, acquired from Minnesota in a blockbuster trade, said he plans to take on a leadership role. “I get to come in and be a leader, show guys how to be a pro,” Randle said. “All I care about, at the end of the day, is winning.”
Bilodeau’s next step
Second-round pick Tyler Bilodeau, valued for his perimeter shooting at UCLA, is being asked to expand his game. Gaitley wants the 6-foot-8 forward to rebound, defend on the perimeter and stay physical when his shot isn’t falling. “If he’s going to have success in the NBA, he’s got to be on the perimeter,” the coach said.
Brooklyn continues Summer League play this week as the front office evaluates how quickly its collection of recent draft picks can contribute alongside established veterans.
Source: Hoops Rumors
