Alex Sarr, the highly anticipated No. 2 overall pick by the Washington Wizards in the 2024 NBA Draft, had a disappointing outing in Tuesday's game against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Las Vegas Summer League. The 7-foot center struggled tremendously, going 0-of-15 from the field, marking the worst shooting performance at Summer League since 2017.
Struggles on the Perimeter
The game saw Sarr attempt a variety of shots, primarily from the perimeter. Surprisingly, seven of his field goal attempts were from beyond the arc, but none found their target. Despite venturing into the paint and attempting runners and floaters, Sarr was unable to make a single shot. His scoreless performance has prompted immediate concerns about his shooting ability, particularly from three-point range, where he is 2-of-17 in three games at the Summer League.
Physicality and Development
Donovan Clingan, the former UConn standout and No. 7 pick, further highlighted Sarr’s current weaknesses by blocking one of his moves to the rim. However, Sarr's game wasn't entirely without positives. He pulled down an impressive nine rebounds, dished out three assists, and recorded three blocks, showcasing his potential as a multi-dimensional player.
"This is what Sarr wanted. He wanted to be with the Wizards, and the Wizards wanted him. Many thought he was the best prospect in this draft because he's an exceptionally mobile 7-footer who can play on the perimeter. But the worry is his lack of physicality. He's going to need to put on 20-plus pounds of muscle to do what he wants on the floor. And I also don't fully trust the shooting from 3, which will be a key skill for him to hit on," an unnamed source noted.
Early Fan Reactions
Sarr’s selection by the Wizards initially generated much excitement among the fanbase, who were eager to witness the potential of an exceptionally mobile 7-footer. However, based on his recent performances, including scoring just 20 points on 8-of-41 shooting from the field in three games, fans are now vocalizing significant concerns about his viability as a key player.
Coaching and Development
The Wizards' coaching staff and development team face a pressing challenge. They need to address Sarr's physicality and enhance his shooting ability to maximize his potential. His early struggles underscore the importance of tailored development programs in helping rookies adjust to the rigors of professional basketball.
A Long Journey Ahead
Despite his current struggles, it's crucial to remember that Sarr is just at the beginning of his journey with the Wizards. The talent that made him the No. 2 overall pick is still there; it’s now up to him and the Wizards' coaching team to unlock it. The fans still have hope that Sarr can turn things around, transform into a formidable two-way player, and justify the high expectations placed upon him.
The Summer League is but a stepping stone, and while Sarr's performance was far from ideal, his ability to rebound, assist, and block shots suggests that he has the tools required to develop into a standout player. Only time will tell if Alex Sarr can live up to the hype and become a cornerstone for the Washington Wizards.