Brooklyn Nets Use Five 2025 First-Round Picks Addressing Playmaking, Face Criticism

The Brooklyn Nets' 2025 NBA Draft was historic, as they used all five of their first-round picks, setting a franchise record and focusing on addressing their major weakness in playmaking. The Nets selected three facilitators—Egor Dëmin, Nolan Traoré, and Ben Saraf—to improve their assist rates, a strategic move following a season where they ranked near the bottom in assists and offensive rating. However, there are mixed opinions on the draft haul, particularly concerning Dëmin, whose scoring and defense remain limited despite his unique height and passing ability. In reflecting on the franchise's history, the Nets' decision to pass on Kobe Bryant in the 1996 NBA Draft remains one of their most regrettable choices, a topic revisited in an upcoming movie and sports commentary. While the team is clearly committed to a patient rebuild under GM Sean Marks, some analysts believe the front office missed opportunities by not drafting players like Nique Clifford, who showed strong collegiate development. Overall, the Nets are attempting to transform their roster thoughtfully, though it remains to be seen how quickly these moves will translate into on-court success.