The NBA's Las Vegas Summer League is winding down, leaving behind a wealth of talent evaluations and intriguing narratives. This year's event featured promising members of the 2024 draft class mingling with second-year players and other hopeful talents, all aiming to solidify their positions in the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season.
Top Picks Showcase Talent and Struggles
The spotlight was understandably bright on the highest draft picks, and their performances did not go unnoticed. Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard, selected as the No. 3 overall pick, impressed with his versatility. Sheppard averaged an impressive 20 points per game, alongside 5.3 assists and 4.8 rebounds in his four-game stint, making a strong case for his readiness to contribute at the next level.
On the other hand, Washington Wizards forward Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick, experienced a tough outing where he failed to hit a single shot, going 0 of 15 from the floor in one game. Despite this setback, Sarr managed to average 5.5 points per game, showcasing the inevitable growing pains that come with transitioning to the NBA.
Notable Performances and Injuries
Zaccharie Risacher, the top overall pick by the Atlanta Hawks, had a brief but noteworthy run. Risacher played only two games, finishing 11 of 27 from the field, which left fans wondering about his potential impact in a more extended run.
Ron Holland, selected fifth by the Detroit Pistons, had his share of struggles with long-range shooting, going 4 of 17 from beyond the arc. Similarly, Charlotte Hornets’ No. 6 pick, Tidjane Salaun, had difficulties from three-point range, hitting just 1 of 10 over three games, averaging 9.0 points per game.
Portland Trail Blazers’ No. 7 pick, Donovan Clingan, stood out with his defensive prowess. Clingan averaged 8.8 rebounds and 4.3 blocks in just under 26 minutes per game, and even managed to make three three-pointers, adding a new wrinkle to his game.
Minnesota Timberwolves’ No. 8 pick, Rob Dillingham, delivered a standout performance against the Magic, posting a team-high 25 points and 12 assists. Meanwhile, Chicago Bulls' No. 11 pick, Matas Buzelis, showcased his scoring ability with 28 points, five rebounds, and two steals against the Warriors.
Memphis Grizzlies’ No. 9 pick, Zach Edey, faced adversity with an ankle injury he sustained against the Pelicans. Despite the injury, Edey had an impressive showing in the Salt Lake City Summer League, recording 14 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks.
Rookies Dealing with Setbacks
Injuries and other setbacks hampered several top picks. Oklahoma City Thunder's Nikola Topić was unable to participate due to a torn ACL, while Sacramento Kings' Devin Carter missed the league because of shoulder surgery. Both players will be eager to make their debuts post-recovery.
Washington Wizards’ No. 14 pick, Carlton Carrington, showcased his all-around game with 13 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals against the Bucks. The 19-year-old's performance hints at a promising future.
Emerging Talents and Future Prospects
Utah Jazz's Cody Williams, picked 10th overall, took part in seven games between the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues, shooting an impressive 73.9% on shots in the paint. His efficiency inside the arc could make him a valuable asset in the regular season.
Stephon Castle split his time between the Las Vegas Summer League and the California Classic, with his standout performance coming in Las Vegas where he tallied 22 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two three-pointers in a single game.
As the summer league concludes, these young players have undoubtedly left their mark, displaying flashes of potential, moments of struggle, and the resilience needed to succeed in the NBA. With the start of the 2024-25 season on the horizon, coaches and fans alike will be eager to see how these newcomers transition their summer performances to the regular season stage.