The Las Vegas Summer League is wrapping up, providing a glimpse of the future stars destined to make an impact in the 2024-25 NBA season. Among the most talked-about players is Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Sheppard showcased his potential by averaging 20 points per game, along with 5.3 assists and 4.8 rebounds over four games. His performance has fueled excitement among Rockets fans, eager to see how his game will translate to the regular season.
Washington Wizards forward Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick, had a tougher stint in the summer league. Sarr notably struggled in one game, going 0 for 15 from the floor, and averaged just 5.5 points per game throughout the league. It’s a stark reminder that even top picks face adjustments as they transition to the professional level.
Atlanta Hawks' top overall selection, Zaccharie Risacher, had a limited summer league appearance, playing only two games. However, he made a significant impression by finishing 11 of 27 from the field. Fans are eager to see if his promising start can be sustained and built upon as the season approaches.
Noteworthy Performances and Struggles
The Detroit Pistons' No. 5 pick, Ron Holland, had a mixed showing, demonstrating his shooting range but struggling with consistency, finishing 4 of 17 in three-point attempts. Charlotte Hornets' No. 6 pick, Tidjane Salaun, faced similar challenges, going just 1 for 10 from beyond the arc across three games while averaging 9.0 points per game.
Portland Trail Blazers' No. 7 pick, Donovan Clingan, excelled in rebounding and defense, averaging 8.8 rebounds and 4.3 blocks in under 26 minutes per game. Clingan also showed his versatility by connecting on three three-pointers during the league, indicating he could stretch the floor at the next level.
Standout Games and Performances
Rob Dillingham, drafted eighth by the Minnesota Timberwolves, delivered a standout game against the Magic, leading his team with 25 points and 12 assists. His performance showcased his ability to score prolifically and facilitate for teammates, a promising sign for Timberwolves fans.
Matas Buzelis, the Chicago Bulls' No. 11 pick, had a memorable game against the Warriors, scoring 28 points, grabbing five rebounds, and making two steals. It was a standout performance in a summer league campaign that saw him participate in five games, suggesting he could become a key player for the Bulls.
Injuries and Absences
Memphis Grizzlies' Zach Edey, the No. 9 pick, unfortunately, suffered an ankle injury against the Pelicans but had earlier shown his potential by recording 14 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks during the Salt Lake City Summer League. Injuries remain a concern for teams monitoring their rookies’ health as the regular season looms.
For the Oklahoma City Thunder, Nikola Topić was unable to participate due to a torn ACL, and Sacramento Kings' Devin Carter missed out because of shoulder surgery. Both absences were significant for their teams, which hoped to assess their new talents before the season begins.
Young Talent and Promising Prospects
Carlton Carrington, taken at No. 14 by the Washington Wizards, impressed with a stat line of 13 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals against the Bucks. Having recently turned 19, Carrington's youth, coupled with his performance, positions him as a player to watch in the future.
Utah Jazz's No. 10 pick, Cody Williams, made his mark by playing in seven games between the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues, shooting an impressive 73.9% on shots in the paint. Williams' efficiency inside demonstrates his potential to be a reliable scorer for the Jazz.
Other Notable Mentions
Stephon Castle’s stint included participation in both the Las Vegas Summer League and the California Classic. In his sole Las Vegas game, Castle recorded 22 points, five rebounds, four assists, and knocked down two three-pointers, giving a taste of his capability to contribute effectively across various aspects of the game.
As the summer league concludes, teams will be sifting through performances, injuries, and statistics to refine their strategies for integrating these promising rookies into their squads. While some players soared, others faced the harsh realities of the transition to professional basketball, setting the stage for an intriguing upcoming season.