Nets' Rookies Shine in Loss to Magic

Egor Demin and Nolan Traore lead the way for Brooklyn in defeat

Feb. 5, 2026 at 9:23pm

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In their first game after the NBA trade deadline, the Brooklyn Nets (13-37) fell to the Orlando Magic (26-24) by a score of 118-98. Despite the loss, the Nets' young rookies Egor Demin and Nolan Traore stood out with impressive performances, providing hope for the team's future.

Why it matters

The Nets are in the midst of a rebuild, and the development of their young players like Demin and Traore will be crucial to the team's long-term success. This game showcased the potential of the Nets' backcourt of the future, even as the team struggled to a road defeat.

The details

Demin, the Nets' lottery pick, had a career-high 26 points on 8-12 shooting, including six made three-pointers. Traore, Demin's fellow rookie, added 21 points and 8 assists. However, the Nets' star Michael Porter Jr. struggled, scoring just 9 points on 2-13 shooting, which hampered the team's overall offensive performance.

  • The game took place on February 6, 2026, the Nets' first outing after the NBA trade deadline.

The players

Egor Demin

A rookie guard for the Brooklyn Nets, Demin had a breakout performance with a career-high 26 points.

Nolan Traore

A rookie guard for the Brooklyn Nets, Traore contributed 21 points and 8 assists in the loss.

Michael Porter Jr.

The Nets' star player, Porter Jr. struggled mightily, scoring just 9 points on 2-13 shooting.

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What they’re saying

“Egor and Nolan really stepped up tonight and showed why we're excited about their future with this team. Even in a loss, their performances were a bright spot.”

— Sean Marks, General Manager, Brooklyn Nets (Instagram)

What’s next

The Nets will look to bounce back in their next game against the Philadelphia 76ers on February 10th.

The takeaway

While the Nets suffered another defeat, the strong showings from rookies Egor Demin and Nolan Traore provide encouragement for the team's long-term rebuilding efforts. Their development will be crucial as the Nets work to return to contention in the Eastern Conference.