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Nearing the end of the NBA Summer League, ESPN's Zach Kram released his rankings for the top rookie performers thus far, with Brooklyn Nets point guard Mikel Brown Jr. landing at No. 6.
Through July 18, Brown has averaged 16.7 points, 4.0 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, displaying the playmaking abilities that made him the No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
"On offense, Brown looked comfortable creating his shot, and he was more fluid in getting to his spots than many of the guards in this rookie class," Kram wrote. "He appears to have the highest ceiling of any of the Nets' numerous young players."
After missing the beginning of the California Classic, Brown worked his way back to significant minutes, looking more comfortable and dynamic with each game.
In his first appearance, Brown delivered multiple high-level wraparound passes to his teammates on the wing, while also knocking down a corner 3-pointer for his first professional basket.
Defensively, Brown looked like a difference-maker, using his length and size to pressure opposing guards and force turnovers.
"Brown didn't have the obvious highlight moments that the players selected above him at No. 6 in the draft did, but he turned in a solid two-way performance at summer league," Kram wrote. "He opened eyes on the defensive end, where he was disruptive in forcing turnovers and standing strong in isolation defense."
Alongside second-year guard Egor Demin, who also had a very strong showing at Summer League, the Nets' front office has to be feeling good about the future of the backcourt in Brooklyn.
Demin had high praise for Brown's offensive skill set, talking about what he brings to the team in Las Vegas.
"He's extremely talented overall," Demin said. "His shooting ability, his ability to create his own shot, and how shifty he is, he's going to give a lot of trouble to defenders."
Veteran forward Julius Randle has also been positive about his new teammate, saying he wants to be a mentor for the former Louisville standout.
By adding Randle, the Nets have certainly raised their floor, while giving the young players on the roster an example of how to be a pro at the next level.
Brown's playmaking ability will be a big benefit for Randle, allowing him to get downhill off kickouts and finish with his size.
Growing continuity between Brown and head coach Jordi Fernández should be a priority early, allowing the lottery pick to learn and understand how he fits into Brooklyn's team.
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Through July 18, Brown has averaged 16.7 points, 4.0 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, displaying the playmaking abilities that made him the No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
"On offense, Brown looked comfortable creating his shot, and he was more fluid in getting to his spots than many of the guards in this rookie class," Kram wrote. "He appears to have the highest ceiling of any of the Nets' numerous young players."
After missing the beginning of the California Classic, Brown worked his way back to significant minutes, looking more comfortable and dynamic with each game.
In his first appearance, Brown delivered multiple high-level wraparound passes to his teammates on the wing, while also knocking down a corner 3-pointer for his first professional basket.
Defensively, Brown looked like a difference-maker, using his length and size to pressure opposing guards and force turnovers.
"Brown didn't have the obvious highlight moments that the players selected above him at No. 6 in the draft did, but he turned in a solid two-way performance at summer league," Kram wrote. "He opened eyes on the defensive end, where he was disruptive in forcing turnovers and standing strong in isolation defense."
Alongside second-year guard Egor Demin, who also had a very strong showing at Summer League, the Nets' front office has to be feeling good about the future of the backcourt in Brooklyn.
Demin had high praise for Brown's offensive skill set, talking about what he brings to the team in Las Vegas.
"He's extremely talented overall," Demin said. "His shooting ability, his ability to create his own shot, and how shifty he is, he's going to give a lot of trouble to defenders."
Veteran forward Julius Randle has also been positive about his new teammate, saying he wants to be a mentor for the former Louisville standout.
By adding Randle, the Nets have certainly raised their floor, while giving the young players on the roster an example of how to be a pro at the next level.
Brown's playmaking ability will be a big benefit for Randle, allowing him to get downhill off kickouts and finish with his size.
Growing continuity between Brown and head coach Jordi Fernández should be a priority early, allowing the lottery pick to learn and understand how he fits into Brooklyn's team.
Join the Community
Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join, simply by clicking the yellow button at the top of the homepage. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Continue reading...
