As the NBA's Las Vegas Summer League winds down, attention shifts to the standout performances and the emerging prospects who could shape the upcoming 2024-25 season. The 2024 draft class, peppered with second-year players and hopeful talents, showcased their skills on the court, each aiming to carve out a notable place in the league. Their performances offer a glimpse into what the future holds for their respective teams.
Rising Stars and Breakout Performances
Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, put on an impressive display. Sheppard averaged 20 points per game, along with 5.3 assists and 4.8 rebounds over four games. His versatile play demonstrated why he was highly regarded in the draft, and he certainly lived up to expectations during the Summer League.
The No. 2 overall pick, Washington Wizards forward Alex Sarr, had a mixed showing. While Sarr struggled with his shooting, including a particularly tough game where he went 0 for 15 from the floor, he still managed to average 5.5 points per game. Despite the shooting woes, Sarr's potential remains evident, and the Wizards will be hoping he can find his rhythm as the season progresses.
Top overall pick Zaccharie Risacher of the Atlanta Hawks played only two games but showed flashes of talent, shooting 11 of 27 from the field. Meanwhile, Ron Holland, selected fifth by the Detroit Pistons, faced challenges with his three-point shooting, finishing 4 of 17 from beyond the arc. However, the Pistons see great potential in his overall game.
Challenges and Setbacks
Not all players had a smooth run during the Summer League. Tidjane Salaun, chosen sixth by the Charlotte Hornets, struggled from long range, going 1 of 10 from beyond the arc over three games. Salaun still managed to average 9.0 points per game, showing resilience amid shooting difficulties.
Portland Trail Blazers' No. 7 pick, Donovan Clingan, made a strong impression with his defensive skills. Clingan averaged 8.8 rebounds and 4.3 blocks in just under 26 minutes per game, also contributing three three-pointers. His presence in the paint was formidable, and he showcased his ability to impact games defensively.
Minnesota Timberwolves' No. 8 pick, Rob Dillingham, delivered a standout performance against the Magic, posting a team-high 25 points and 12 assists. Such performances highlight his potential to be an offensive catalyst for the Timberwolves.
Highs and Lows
Matas Buzelis, the Chicago Bulls' No. 11 pick, played in five games and had a memorable showing against the Warriors with 28 points, five rebounds, and two steals. On the other hand, Memphis Grizzlies' No. 9 pick Zach Edey faced adversity with an ankle injury against the Pelicans. Before the injury, Edey had recorded 14 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks during the Salt Lake City Summer League, suggesting he could be a vital player for the Grizzlies if he recovers well.
Two players were notably absent due to injuries: Nikola Topić of the Oklahoma City Thunder missed out due to a torn ACL, and Devin Carter of the Sacramento Kings was sidelined after shoulder surgery.
Carlton Carrington, selected 14th by the Washington Wizards, showed promise with 13 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals in a game against the Bucks, shortly after turning 19. His all-around performance hints at a bright future with the Wizards.
Additional Insights
Utah Jazz's No. 10 pick, Cody Williams, played in seven games between the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues, boasting an impressive 73.9% shooting on shots in the paint. He demonstrated efficiency and consistency, traits that the Jazz will look to capitalize on in the coming season.
Lastly, Stephon Castle had limited participation but made the most of his opportunities. He played one game during the Las Vegas Summer League and three in the California Classic, tallying 22 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two three-pointers in his lone Las Vegas outing.
As the teams wrap up their Summer League campaigns, the performances of these young prospects will be scrutinized and celebrated. Their journey to carving out a place in the NBA's future continues, with the upcoming season offering the next chapter in their development and pursuit of basketball excellence.