In an impressive display during Friday night’s game, Brooklyn Nets rookie Nolan Traore made the most of his extended playtime, clocking a career-high of nearly 28 minutes in a thrilling 112-109 victory over the Chicago Bulls. His performance in the final stretch of the game earned him a pivotal role, overshadowing lottery pick Egor Dëmin.

Traore showcased his playmaking abilities by dishing out seven assists and strategically spent 8:59 on the court during the crucial fourth quarter. In contrast, Dëmin was restricted to just under three minutes in the final period, a decision made by head coach Jordi Fernández.

Though Dëmin was initially expected to be a key player in those final moments, Traore took over the reins for the last five minutes, a decision that Fernández explained was based on the need for a certain level of physicality. “I needed Egor to lead with this physicality, and those are conversations he and I have,” Fernández commented. He cited Dëmin’s past performance against New Orleans, where his defensive skills shone as he effectively guarded Trey Murphy, bringing a level of intensity the coach admires.

Despite the switch, Fernández expressed satisfaction with both players’ performances and their selfless approach to the game. “I’m very happy with how they play, how selfless they play, their intentions. That’s how you learn and get better,” he stated. Fernández remains confident in Dëmin’s ability to deliver when needed, emphasizing the importance of his defensive prowess and his shooting capabilities. He conveyed his hopes that Dëmin’s competitive spirit would be ignited by the benching, pushing him to elevate his game further.

“But I’m very happy with both. I’m very happy with how they play, how selfless they play, their intentions. That’s how you learn and get better. I know [Dëmin’s] not happy if I take him out of the game. That’s what I hope. And then from there, I know he can bring that level of physicality to guard, to switch, to guard bigger guys, to get into the paint. And then everything else that his superpowers are shooting the ball and finding the 3-point line. I know that that’s there.”

Ziaire Williams (illness) and Haywood Highsmith (surgery recovery) were out for the Nets. Ben Saraf and two-way E.J. Liddell were with Long Island.

Noah Clowney had 23 points on 4-of-7 shooting from deep. His 11 rebounds were a career-high.