The NBA's Las Vegas Summer League is winding to a close, and the event has offered fans and analysts a tantalizing preview of what's to come in the 2024-25 NBA season. Featuring a blend of the freshest draft picks, second-year players, and aspiring talents, it's been a showcase of potential and glimpses of future stars.
Top Picks and Performances
Leading the conversation is Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard, who was selected No. 3 overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. Sheppard has been particularly impressive, averaging 20 points per game, 5.3 assists, and 4.8 rebounds over four games. This promising start has Rocket fans hopeful that Sheppard will be a key contributor in the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, the Washington Wizards' No. 2 overall pick, Alex Sarr, faced some struggles. Despite the high expectations, Sarr experienced a challenging game where he went 0 for 15 from the floor. He averaged 5.5 points per game during his time in the summer league, leaving room for growth as he adjusts to the professional level.
The Atlanta Hawks' top overall pick, Zaccharie Risacher, played only two games but showed potential by finishing 11 of 27 from the field. Despite limited playtime, Risacher demonstrated why the Hawks invested in his talent.
Mid-First Round Highlights
Detroit Pistons' No. 5 pick, Ron Holland, showcased his shooting capability by finishing 4 of 17 in three-point shooting. Though there's room for improvement, Holland’s well-rounded game indicates he could be a vital piece for Detroit moving forward.
The Charlotte Hornets' No. 6 pick, Tidjane Salaun, faced his own shooting woes, going 1 of 10 from beyond the arc across three games. Still, his average of 9.0 points per game suggests that with refinement, Salaun could develop into a reliable scorer.
Portland Trail Blazers' No. 7 pick, Donovan Clingan, proved to be a defensive force, averaging 8.8 rebounds and 4.3 blocks in just under 26 minutes per game. Clingan also demonstrated his range by making three three-pointers during the league, showing he can stretch the floor.
Minnesota Timberwolves' No. 8 pick, Rob Dillingham, had a standout performance with a team-high 25 points and 12 assists in a game against the Magic. His playmaking ability has been a highlight for the Timberwolves’ summer campaign.
Other Notable Performances
The Chicago Bulls' No. 11 pick, Matas Buzelis, played in five games, delivering a standout performance with 28 points, five rebounds, and two steals against the Warriors. Buzelis’ versatility and scoring ability were on full display, giving Bulls fans plenty to look forward to.
Memphis Grizzlies' No. 9 pick, Zach Edey, had a mixed experience. While he recorded 14 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks during the Salt Lake City Summer League, he also suffered an ankle injury that cut his Las Vegas participation short.
Utah Jazz's No. 10 pick, Cody Williams, proved efficient in the paint, shooting 73.9% on shots close to the basket over seven games between the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues. His scoring precision near the rim is an asset the Jazz will look to harness.
Washington Wizards' No. 14 pick, Carlton Carrington, celebrated his 19th birthday with an impressive performance, recording 13 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals against the Bucks. Carrington’s all-around game promises a significant upside for the Wizards.
Injury News
Unfortunately, not all top picks had the chance to showcase their abilities. Oklahoma City Thunder's Nikola Topić did not participate due to a torn ACL, while Sacramento Kings' Devin Carter missed out due to shoulder surgery. Both players will be eager to make their marks once they return to full health.
Rising Rookie Moments
Stephon Castle had limited appearances during the summer leagues, playing one game in Las Vegas and three in the California Classic. However, he made a strong impression in his solo Las Vegas appearance with 22 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two three-pointers. Castle's performance suggests he could become a valuable player as he gains more experience.
As the Las Vegas Summer League concludes, the anticipation builds for these rookies and second-year players to take what they've learned into the upcoming NBA season. The flashes of brilliance and moments of struggle witnessed are all part of the journey young players embark on as they transition to the highest level of basketball.