As the NBA's Las Vegas Summer League comes to a close, a blend of rookies from the 2024 draft class and second-year players have showcased their talents, each vying for a roster spot in the 2024-25 NBA season. The performances ranged from impressive to disappointing, with several standout players making headlines.
Top Picks and Notable Performances
One of the most talked-about players was Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Sheppard demonstrated his scoring prowess by averaging 20 points per game along with 5.3 assists and 4.8 rebounds over four games. His consistent performance has set high expectations as he heads into his rookie season.
Conversely, Washington Wizards forward Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick, struggled to find his rhythm, highlighted by a game where he shot 0 of 15 from the floor. Despite the tough outing, Sarr averaged 5.5 points per game during the summer league. Wizards fans are hopeful that he will bounce back and showcase the talent that made him a top pick.
Zaccharie Risacher, the top overall pick by the Atlanta Hawks, had a limited showing, playing only two games and shooting 11 of 27 from the field. While fans didn’t get to see much of Risacher, his moments on the court hinted at the potential the Hawks see in him.
Other First-Round Picks
Ron Holland, selected No. 5 by the Detroit Pistons, had his ups and downs, notably finishing 4 of 17 in three-point shooting. The Pistons hope his shooting mechanics will improve as he gains more experience.
Charlotte Hornets’ No. 6 pick, Tidjane Salaun, also faced shooting challenges, going 1 of 10 from beyond the arc across three games and averaging 9.0 points per game. His shooting slump did not overshadow his overall potential, and the Hornets look forward to his development.
Portland Trail Blazers' No. 7 pick, Donovan Clingan, stood out defensively, 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.
Rob Dillingham, taken at No. 8 by the Minnesota Timberwolves, had a standout performance with a team-high 25 points and 12 assists in a game against the Magic. His dynamic playmaking ability was on full display, making him a player to watch.
Chicago Bulls' No. 11 pick, Matas Buzelis, played in five games, with a memorable outing against the Warriors, where he scored 28 points, grabbed five rebounds, and made two steals. His all-around performance indicates a promising future.
Zach Edey, selected No. 9 by the Memphis Grizzlies, unfortunately, suffered an ankle injury against the Pelicans. Before the injury, Edey made a significant impact during the Salt Lake City Summer League with 14 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks.
Other notable mentions include Utah Jazz's No. 10 pick, Cody Williams, who played in seven games between the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues. Williams shot an impressive 73.9% on shots in the paint, showcasing his efficiency and skill around the basket.
Challenges and Absences
Not all prospects had the opportunity to shine. Oklahoma City Thunder’s Nikola Topić did not participate due to a torn ACL. Similarly, Devin Carter of the Sacramento Kings was absent from the league due to shoulder surgery. Both players will be looking forward to recovering and making their mark when they return.
Washington Wizards’ No. 14 pick, Carlton Carrington, showed flashes of brilliance with 13 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals in a game against the Bucks. Turning 19 recently, Carrington has plenty of time to grow and establish himself.
In an impressive single-game showing, Stephon Castle played one game during the Las Vegas Summer League after participating in the California Classic. He tallied 22 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two three-pointers, making a strong impression.
As the summer league concludes, basketball fans are left with a mix of highlights, potential, and curiosities. The performances in Las Vegas offered a glimpse into the future of the NBA, filled with rising stars and budding talent eager to make an impact in the forthcoming season.