​LAS VEGAS — The Brooklyn Nets opened their summer with a strong showing in Sacramento and then carried that momentum into the Las Vegas Summer League, where they faced the defending champion New York Knicks in Friday’s opener. The Nets rolled to a 91-65 victory over New York, using a dominant third quarter to break the game open with a 30-9 run that put the result out of reach. Egor Demin led the way with 20 points and three rebounds, and Mikel Brown Jr., the No. 6 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, contributed 20 points and three assists in 22 minutes of action. The Knicks, meanwhile, struggled with their shooting as a team, though forward Pacome Dadiet posted 20 points and seven rebounds, and Tyler Nickel chipped in 18 points and four rebounds in 22 bench minutes.
Brooklyn had hoped Demin and Brown would deliver strong showings, but center Chaney Johnson continued to impress with 11 points, nine rebounds, and four steals in the win. Here are the Nets’ grades following Friday’s win over the Knicks.
Brown struggled to find his rhythm early as he balanced creating for himself with setting up teammates. He found his groove in the second half, handling the ball with more comfort and making an impact on both ends of the floor, finishing with efficient shooting, two steals, and a blocked shot.
Powell endured another rough scoring night, unable to settle into a consistent rhythm offensively, especially as he tried to attack the rim more than in Sacramento. He did contribute on the glass and on defense, but his offensive production remains a work in progress, and the Nets will be hoping he can break out before Las Vegas concludes.
Demin’s performance in the California Classic had some wondering if he had already shown enough to justify his time in summer league, and this game offered a reminder that his value extends beyond scoring. His three-point shot faltered again, but he compensated with strong drives to the basket and noticeable impact on the defensive end through active feet and hands.
Wolf made his summer-circuit debut and delivered a promising showing despite dealing with an ankle injury that limited his offseason development. He wasn’t highly efficient on offense, but he found his spots on the floor, rebounded well, and delivered several quality passes to teammates.
Across the roster, the Nets already project Johnson as a high-energy contributor whose effort stands out game after game. His motor and willingness to play bigger than his frame have drawn praise and earned him plenty of admiration from teammates and coaches as he continues to earn his role.
In summary, Brooklyn’s Friday win over New York showcased the team’s depth and versatility, with Demin and Brown providing scoring pop, Johnson anchoring the effort inside, and players like Wolf and Powell contributing in various facets. If the Nets can maintain that level of intensity and continue refining their offensive cohesion, they could be well-positioned as this summer league progresses. The early returns from Las Vegas suggest Brooklyn is not only competing but threatening to emerge as a formidable force in this stage of the offseason.