As the 2025 NBA Draft is less than three weeks away, the Brooklyn Nets are in a rare position, holding a lottery pick for the first time under general manager Sean Marks. After a year of offensive struggles, this No. 8 selection presents a critical opportunity to reset the franchise’s trajectory. The front office remained predictably tight-lipped, but several names emerged in recent mock drafts as strong possibilities.
The Nets need a player to address key issues, including outside shooting, playmaking, and offensive creativity. Multiple prospects match what they seek, but each has strengths and weaknesses. Whoever they choose could show how the team plans to build around its young players in the future.
Recent projections across ESPN, Bleacher Report, The Ringer, and ClutchPoints highlight four names frequently tied to the Nets’ pick. The name includes Kon Knueppel, Oklahoma’s Jeremiah Fears, Patiopharm Ulm’s Noa Essengue, and BYU’s Egor Demin. Each brings a unique skill set that could help elevate the Net’s offense and long-term ceiling.
Probable Top Options For The Brooklyn Nets
ESPN’s mock draft pegs Kon Knueppel as the pick. The Duke wing shot 40.6 percent from three and 91 percent from the line, offering the Nets a bankable shooting threat and high-playmaking strategies. Scouts praised his growing offensive game and effort at the combine, where he said he plans to work out with Brooklyn.
The Ringer links Jeremiah Fears to Brooklyn if he slides. Fears averaged 17.1 points and 4.1 assists for the Oklahoma City Thunder but shot just 28.4 percent from deep. Despite some inefficiencies, the Nets reportedly had a “great” meeting with him at the combine, and his ability to break down defenses remains appealing.
Jeremiah Fears said he had a “great” meeting and workout with the Nets:
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) May 14, 2025
“The conversations were great. They were just telling me how I could fit within their system and be an overall good piece for them.” pic.twitter.com/VWKjL6BaYA
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Bleacher Report and Yahoo Sports consider Noa Essengue a top-10 prospect. The 18-year-old forward is still developing, but has played well in Germany against experienced pros. He is good in size and athleticism for defense, though his outside shooting still needs work.
Meanwhile, Clutchpoint and Foc Sports highlight Egor Dermin’s playmaking and size as rare traits. While his shot is a work in progress, Demin impressed teams at the combine with his poise and passing vision. If his scoring develops, he could become a versatile lead initiator in the props.
The Nets have several intriguing options at No. 8, each offering a different solution to their offensive struggles. Whether they choose shooting, playmaking, or upside, this pick could shape the team’s direction for years ahead.
Also Read: 2025 NBA Draft: Who Could The Oklahoma City Thunder Target With Their No. 15 Overall Pick?
