Why BYU’s Egor Demin Could Be Orlando’s Hidden NBA Draft Gem originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, the Orlando Magic find themselves in an enviable but critical position. With a solid defensive core already in place, anchored by Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs—the team now faces the challenge of fine-tuning its offense. Holding the 16th and 25th picks, the front office, led by Jeff Weltman, is reportedly considering several options. But one name that quietly stands out as a seamless fit is BYU’s Egor Demin.
Demin, a 6-foot-9 guard from Russia, may not carry the buzz of a top-five pick, but his value as a potential offensive connector cannot be overstated. What Orlando needs isn’t necessarily another high-usage scorer. It needs a player who can elevate the team’s offensive flow without dominating the ball. Someone who complements Banchero and Wagner rather than overlaps with them. That’s where Demin shines.
Known for his vision and playmaking ability, Demin has drawn comparisons to Josh Giddey and, ironically, Wagner himself. His game is built on feel: manipulating defenders with subtle pace changes, delivering sharp passes through tight windows, and reading the floor like a seasoned pro. At BYU, he ranked third in the Big 12 in total assists and helped lead the Cougars to the Sweet 16 as a freshman. He did it not by scoring in bunches, but by making everyone around him better.
Perhaps most intriguing is how Demin has modeled his game. At the NBA Draft Combine, he cited Franz Wagner, Cade Cunningham, and Deni Avdija as inspirations, players known for their size, versatility, and high basketball IQ. Demin’s self-awareness and adaptability signal a player who fits not only stylistically but also culturally with the Magic’s team-first identity.
Off the ball, Demin is equally valuable. His experience in Real Madrid’s motion-heavy system gave him instincts few young players possess. He relocates well, cuts at the right moments, and understands how to create spacing for others, traits that don’t show up in the box score but make offenses hum. On defense, his size and anticipation allow him to guard multiple positions, adding to his plug-and-play appeal.
Orlando doesn’t need to swing for a star with the 16th pick. They already have two in Banchero and Wagner. What they need is a complementary piece who can grow with the core. A player who buys into the system, understands his role, and quietly makes winning plays. Egor Demin fits that mold.
There are questions, of course, his scoring and shooting remain a work in progress. But in a draft where many teams will gamble on upside, the Magic have the luxury of drafting for fit. Demin may not light up highlight reels, but he could quietly become the connective tissue that brings Orlando’s offense to life.
For a team ready to take the next step, Egor Demin might just be the overlooked answer hiding in plain sight.
Related: CBS Sports Names BYU National Championship Contender Next Year
Related: Egor Demin Nears NBA Dream Amid Political Turmoil With Home Country
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 8, 2025, where it first appeared.
