Why Nets drafted Egor Demin, a history-making Russian from BYU, at No. 8 overall

A Russian player hadn't been drafted in the first round in more than a decade.

The Brooklyn Nets changed that earlier than some expected, choosing Egor Demin from BYU at No. 8 overall in Wednesday night's first round.

Demin, who plied his craft at Real Madrid in Spain before coming to the NCAA, is a unique talent.

His shot isn't broken, but it needs work. That's not the point.

Demin is a 6-foot-9 point guard with the best vision in the draft.

MORE: Mavs' Cooper Flagg trade decision changes everything

He's a generational talent in his specific skillset.

There's no guarantee it works. If he can't score at the NBA level, it limits his ability to have open passing lanes to improve.

But if his shot works, Demin will be a star.

MORE: Ace Bailey might be worth the risk for the Jazz

At No. 8, it's worth the risk.

Especially for Brooklyn, which has five first-round picks. They can afford to take a couple risks. They only need one or two to really work out.

And if Demin works out, he's an All-Star with a game that will stand out thanks to his combination of size, precision and vision.

MORE: Hornets draft Knueppel brothers to join Ball brothers