Egor Demin's NBA debut is the most anticipated for a Brooklyn Nets rookie in recent memory. However, fans have yet to see the No. 8 pick this preseason, as he's been sidelined due to a plantar fascia tear.

Demin has taken a significant step towards a return ahead of Brooklyn's Oct. 22 regular-season opener. The rookie point guard is participating in contact portions of practice during the Nets' China trip , as seen on one of the team's social media posts . Expand Tweet

Demin's foot injury cropped up after his four Summer League appearances in late July. While he's yet to take the floor this preseason, his progression to contact drills is an encouraging sign two weeks away from Brooklyn's first regular-season action.

Egor Demin progressing toward return from foot injury ahead of

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