The Chicago Bulls are setting their sights on a promising talent for the 2025 NBA Draft, with reports indicating they are “zoning in” on BYU point guard Egor Demin for their 12th overall pick. This move, highlighted by Sports Illustrated and corroborated by posts on X, could prove to be a masterstroke for a franchise looking to bolster its roster with a versatile and high-upside prospect.
A Rising Star from BYU
Egor Demin, a 19-year-old freshman standout, has caught the attention of NBA scouts with his impressive performance during his lone season at Brigham Young University. In 33 starts, Demin averaged 10.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, showcasing his ability to impact both ends of the floor. His playmaking prowess, evidenced by his 5.5 assists per game, combined with his 6’9″ frame, makes him a unique prospect in a draft class filled with potential.
Demin’s stock has been on the rise, particularly after a standout performance at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago. While he struggled with his three-point shooting during the college season, his improved showing at the combine has alleviated concerns about his long-range capabilities. According to ClutchPoints, Demin’s combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ has intrigued NBA front offices, with some projections even placing him as high as the 8th overall pick to the Brooklyn Nets.
Why the Bulls Are Interested
For the Bulls, targeting Demin represents a strategic move to address their need for a dynamic playmaker who can complement their current roster. With last year’s lottery pick, Matas Buzelis, showing promise as a rookie, Chicago is aiming to build a young core capable of competing in the Eastern Conference. Demin’s ability to facilitate, defend multiple positions, and contribute immediately aligns with head coach Billy Donovan’s up-tempo system.
However, there’s a catch: Demin’s rising draft stock could put him out of Chicago’s reach. Sports Illustrated notes that if Demin falls to the 12th pick, the Bulls are poised to pounce, viewing him as a potential steal. The team’s front office is also reportedly considering other prospects, such as Derik Queen, Collin Murray-Boyles, and Asa Newell, but Demin appears to be the primary target due to his unique skill set.
Could Demin Be the Draft’s Biggest Steal?
The buzz around Demin, as seen in posts on X from accounts like @SeeRed_Br and @TalkBasket, underscores the excitement surrounding his potential. At just 19, Demin offers long-term upside, with the ability to develop into a cornerstone player. His size for a point guard, combined with his playmaking and defensive versatility, draws comparisons to modern NBA stars who thrive in positionless basketball.
If the Bulls secure Demin at No. 12, they could land a player with top-10 talent, making this a defining moment for the franchise. As ClutchPoints suggests, Demin’s performance at the combine may have elevated him beyond Chicago’s reach, but the Bulls’ interest signals their intent to take a bold swing in a draft lacking clear superstar talent.
What’s Next for Chicago?
The 2025 NBA Draft, set to take place in just over three weeks, will be a pivotal moment for the Bulls. After another season without a deep playoff run, Chicago is under pressure to make impactful roster moves. While trade rumors swirl around veterans and the team’s limited assets, as reported by Yahoo Sports, the draft offers a chance to inject youth and potential into the lineup.
Whether Demin becomes a Bull remains to be seen, but the team’s focus on him signals a shift toward prioritizing high-upside talent. If he delivers on his promise, Egor Demin could be the steal of the 2025 NBA Draft, giving Chicago a reason to believe in a brighter future.