Ben Saraf Shines Amid Nets’ Defeat to Warriors

Ben Saraf entered the season as the Brooklyn Nets’ No. 26 pick in the 2025 draft. Early struggles left him on the periphery of the rookie rotation.

Recent form

Brooklyn expanded its rotation late in the season. Saraf has taken advantage of the extra minutes and responsibility.

Over his last eight games he is averaging 12.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.6 steals. He has scored in double figures in seven of those eight contests.

March uptick

Saraf shot 43 percent from the field in March. His free-throw mark climbed to 88 percent on more attempts.

Those numbers point to increased comfort on offense and growing efficiency.

Showcase vs Golden State

In a 109-106 loss to Golden State, Saraf recorded 14 points and seven assists. He missed a potential go-ahead layup late in the game.

He shined despite the Nets’ defeat to the Warriors. The contest offered valuable experience for the rookie.

Fit in the offense

Head coach Jordi Fernández’s system has helped Saraf find his role. He navigates the pick-and-roll and chooses moments to attack the rim.

That decision-making has helped him take more control in scoring situations.

Context and comparisons

Saraf’s surge recalls Nolan Traoré’s February breakout. Traoré earned a February Rookie of the Month nomination in the Eastern Conference.

Traoré impressed with three-level scoring and strong playmaking. Saraf’s recent form offers a similar spark for Brooklyn’s young core.

Injuries and opportunity

Key rotation players are sidelined. Michael Porter Jr., Egor Dёmin and Day’Ron Sharpe are among those unavailable.

Those absences should create more minutes for Saraf and other rookies over the next two and a half weeks.

Schedule and outlook

Brooklyn finishes its West Coast trip against the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday. The team then returns to Barclays Center for a six-game home stretch.

The Nets are not positioned to prioritize wins as they seek better odds for the 2026 top pick. Still, development of the young group remains the primary takeaway.

Keep an eye on Saraf and Brooklyn’s rookie class as the season winds down. Reporting for Filmogaz.com.