The Brooklyn Nets are hoping they won't have to rely on their top-tier orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Martin O’Malley, for Egor Demin's plantar fascia issues.
The young talent, just barely 20, has been sidelined for the season, but the silver lining is that surgery isn't on the table. Head coach Jordi Fernandez recently shared that Demin's treatment will be non-surgical, which is promising news for the Nets and their fans.
“Egor’s always been eager to play and improve, and there’s no substitute for real game experience at this level,” Fernandez explained. “But when discomfort hinders performance, we have to look for solutions.
Fortunately, his treatment doesn’t require surgery. We’re optimistic about his recovery over the summer, and while missing these last 20 games isn’t ideal, his health is our top priority.”
This isn't the first time Demin has faced this hurdle. After a standout Summer League in Las Vegas, where he quelled doubts about his shooting, Demin spent much of the off-season in treatment.
The Nets kept the details under wraps until Media Day in late September, and Demin only returned to action during the team’s trip to China. Initially, his recovery seemed on track, with absences chalked up to rest.
However, as discomfort resurfaced, the decision was made to shut him down for the season’s remainder-a wise move given the team's focus on securing a high draft pick.
Dr. Andrew Brief, an orthopedic expert from Ridgewood Orthopedic Group, weighed in on Demin’s situation.
While he hasn’t treated Demin, his insights are invaluable. “For a jumping athlete like a basketball player, plantar fasciitis can be painful and sometimes debilitating,” Brief noted.
“But given his youth and health, there’s reason to believe it will resolve without becoming chronic. If issues persist, other options might need consideration.”
Dr. Brief outlined various non-surgical treatments the Nets might explore, such as immobilization, medication, physical therapy, and injections like cortisone or PRP. “Surgery is a last resort because most people improve without it,” he said.
The impact of plantar fasciitis on performance is significant, as the condition can limit an athlete's ability to make explosive plays due to pain. This was evident in Demin’s recent games, where his performance dipped-averaging just six points on 31.4% shooting in his last six outings. Fans speculated he’d hit the rookie wall, but it was clear he was playing through pain.
Dr. Brief emphasized the importance of the Nets’ decision to rest Demin.
“Given his symptoms and recurrence, it’s the right time to shut him down. It’s likely affecting his play, and with the team not in playoff contention, prioritizing his recovery is wise.”
The Nets are hopeful that with the right care and a summer of recovery, Demin will return stronger next season.