As the Brooklyn Nets approach the final stretch of their 2025-26 NBA season, their focus is split between wrapping up the current campaign and eyeing the potential game-changers in the 2026 NBA Draft. With just 12 games remaining, the Nets are eager to rack up a few more wins, but they’re also casting a keen eye on future prospects, notably BYU forward AJ Dybantsa.
Nets rookie Egor Demin, who knows a thing or two about BYU talent, has been vocal about Dybantsa’s potential. "He’s going to be a great player," Demin noted, drawing parallels to NBA stars like Kevin Durant and Jayson Tatum. That’s high praise from Demin, the eighth overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, who’s been keeping tabs on his alma mater’s standout.
Demin’s scouting report on Dybantsa paints the picture of a dynamic player. “It’s a lot of midrange, really aggressive driver, slasher, the transition game, physicality, crazy athlete.
He’s got everything to be able to play on the highest level,” Demin elaborated. With Dybantsa’s recent performances, coupled with injury setbacks for Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, the BYU forward is emerging as the likely top pick in the upcoming Draft.
Currently, the Nets hold the third-worst record in the NBA, positioning them with a 14.0% chance to snag the coveted No. 1 overall pick. However, the lottery’s unpredictability means they could slide back as far as the seventh pick. If Brooklyn has its sights set on Dybantsa, they’ll need a bit of luck on their side.
Dybantsa’s recent showcase-a 35-point, 10-rebound performance in a tough loss to Texas in the NCAA Tournament-has only solidified his status as the top player in the 2026 class. If Demin’s insights are any indication, the Nets would do well to hope for a chance to bring this promising talent into their fold this summer.