Nolan Traore Steps Up as Brooklyn’s Floor General in Win Over Bulls
With key rotation players Michael Porter Jr. and Egor Demin sidelined, it was rookie Nolan Traore who stepped into the spotlight for the Brooklyn Nets - and he didn’t just fill the void, he made a statement.
In a 123-115 win over the Chicago Bulls, Traore notched his first career double-double, finishing with 13 points and 13 assists. The performance wasn’t just a statistical milestone - it was a glimpse into what Brooklyn’s future might look like with the young French guard steering the offense.
Commanding the Offense
Traore’s role on Monday night was clear: be the tone setter. And that’s exactly what he did.
From the opening tip, he took control of the offense, orchestrating possessions with poise well beyond his years. His ability to read the floor, find open teammates, and attack when the opportunity presented itself stood out - especially with the Bulls throwing a variety of defensive looks his way.
“It’s good because we’re learning how to play with each other better,” Traore said postgame. “It’s great for the team.”
That chemistry is starting to show. With every game, Traore is growing more comfortable in the NBA’s pace and spacing - two elements that can often overwhelm rookies early on. But for Traore, the game is starting to slow down.
“It’s a little bit slower with the experience you get,” he said. “Now it’s getting better and I hope it continues.”
A Developing Duo with Nic Claxton
One of the most promising developments from Traore’s big night? His growing connection with big man Nic Claxton.
Claxton’s screens were a key part of Traore’s ability to get downhill and create. The rookie made sure to acknowledge that postgame, crediting his teammate for opening up the floor.
“Clax especially hit some good screens,” Traore said. “He opens up the court so I can make decisions.”
That screen-and-roll dynamic is still a work in progress, but it’s trending in the right direction. Traore noted that building that chemistry is a daily grind - one that’s already paying dividends.
“It’s an everyday thing in learning how to give good lobs and be in a good situation,” he explained. “And he learns how to screen me better so we can get the ball better.
It’s a day-to-day thing. I just keep going and keep working.”
Thriving in NBA Spacing
One factor that’s clearly helping Traore adapt quickly? The NBA’s spacing. With the floor spread and shooters around him, the rookie’s speed becomes even more of a weapon.
“I have more spacing in the NBA and you have good shooters,” he said. “It’s easier for me with my speed to take advantage of that.”
That’s been evident in his ability to collapse defenses and find open looks for teammates. With his quick first step and improving vision, Traore is starting to look more and more like a long-term solution at the point for Brooklyn.
Trust from the Top
Another key ingredient in Traore’s development: the trust of head coach Jordi Fernandez.
“He trusts me a lot with the ball,” Traore said. “Sometimes I can call the plays.”
That level of freedom is rare for a rookie, but it speaks volumes about how the Nets view Traore’s basketball IQ and leadership potential. He’s not just running plays - he’s starting to dictate the flow of the game.
Looking Ahead
With the win, the Nets took the season series over the Bulls, 3-1. But more importantly, they may have found a new engine for their offense.
Traore’s performance wasn’t flashy - it was controlled, efficient, and impactful. Exactly what you want from a young point guard trying to find his footing in the league.
There’s still a long road ahead for the rookie, but if Monday night was any indication, Nolan Traore isn’t just adjusting to the NBA - he’s starting to thrive in it.