Fernández elevates Ellis as defensive tone‑setter in Brooklyn

Keon Ellis is making an immediate impression in his first training camp with the Brooklyn Nets, particularly on the defensive end. Head coach Jordi Fernández praised the 26‑year‑old’s instincts, calling his hands the best in the NBA and highlighting how rare that skill is to teach. Fernández believes Ellis can help define Brooklyn’s defensive identity through deflections, steals and instinctive reads, while stressing that discipline and adherence to game plans remain essential.

Signed in free agency after time in Sacramento and Cleveland, Ellis arrives with solid credentials. He averaged 8.3 points and shot 43.3 percent from three in 2024‑25, then posted improved efficiency with the Cavaliers last season. Brooklyn invested in him with a two‑year, $18 million deal, adding a reliable perimeter defender to a roster featuring Michael Porter Jr., Julius Randle and rookie Mikel Brown Jr.

Fernández aims to build a tougher, more aggressive team, and sees Ellis as a key catalyst.