Nets
The Brooklyn Nets have made the tough decision to sideline rookie Egor Demin for the remainder of the season due to a nagging left foot injury. Despite Demin's eagerness to stay on the court, the pain proved too significant, as reported by Brian Lewis of the New York Post.
Coach Jordi Fernandez shared, “He’s a kid that wants to be out there. But when the discomfort doesn’t allow you to play at that level, we had to find solutions.”
On the bright side, Demin's recovery will not require surgery. The team hopes that resting him now will ensure he's ready to tackle the offseason in full health.
Fernandez emphasized the importance of Demin's well-being, stating, “His health is No. 1.
We’re very optimistic.”
Raptors
The Toronto Raptors have hit a rough patch lately, and it's become clear that when Scottie Barnes is absent, Brandon Ingram struggles as the primary option. Eric Koreen of The Athletic notes that while Ingram is a willing passer, his decision-making can be sluggish, and he's been in a shooting slump during Toronto's recent struggles.
However, there’s a glimmer of hope as guard Jamal Shead seems to be finding his rhythm. In a recent game against New Orleans, Shead posted nine points, three assists, and no turnovers in 20 minutes, a positive sign after shooting just 20 percent earlier in March.
Jazz
The Utah Jazz are making moves to bolster their defense by signing rookie guard Bez Mbeng to a 10-day contract. According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Mbeng, a standout from Yale, has been playing with the G League’s Sioux Falls Skyforce, where he averaged 6.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.8 assists.
Mbeng's defensive prowess is his standout feature. He earned the Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year title for three consecutive seasons and was also named the conference Player of the Year in 2024-25. The Jazz are hopeful that his defensive skills will translate to the NBA level.