Nets Send Rookie First-Round Pick to G League Amid Shooting Slump

Brooklyn Nets assign Drake Powell to G League after extended offensive struggles

Mar. 3, 2026 at 2:39am

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The Brooklyn Nets have sent rookie first-round pick Drake Powell down to their G League affiliate, the Long Island Nets, following an extended shooting slump. Powell, the 19th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has struggled with his offense in recent weeks after showing promise earlier in the season.

Why it matters

The Nets have utilized the G League to develop their five rookie first-round picks this season, with Nolan Traore previously spending time in Long Island before rejoining the NBA roster. Sending Powell down is an attempt to help him regain his shooting touch and confidence at the professional level.

The details

Powell, a North Carolina product, has averaged 6.4 points on 46% shooting from the field and 32.4% from three-point range in 16.9 minutes per game this season. However, over his last 17 appearances, those numbers have dipped to 5.2 points on 35.4% shooting overall and 20.9% from deep. With Powell in the G League, the Nets have called up rookie Ben Saraf, who has played well in the developmental league.

  • On Friday, the Nets sent Powell down to the Long Island Nets in the G League.
  • The Nets have utilized the G League to get extended playing time for their five rookie first-round picks throughout the 2025-26 season.

The players

Drake Powell

A rookie first-round pick (No. 19 overall) of the Brooklyn Nets in the 2025 NBA Draft, who has struggled with his shooting in recent weeks after showing promise earlier in the season.

Ben Saraf

A rookie point guard for the Brooklyn Nets who has been called up from the team's G League affiliate, the Long Island Nets, after spending an extended period developing in the developmental league.

Nolan Traore

A French floor general for the Brooklyn Nets who spent time in the G League earlier this season before rejoining the NBA roster and becoming the team's full-time starting point guard.

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What’s next

With Powell in the G League, rookie Ben Saraf could see extended minutes in the Nets' rotation as the team continues to develop its young talent.

The takeaway

The Nets' decision to send their rookie first-round pick Drake Powell to the G League highlights the team's commitment to developing its young players and providing them with the best opportunities to succeed at the professional level.