The NBA's Las Vegas Summer League is winding down, but it has provided a sneak peek into the budding talents that could shape the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season. With the convergence of rookies from the 2024 draft class, second-year players, and hopefuls vying for a spot in the league, the competition has been fierce and enlightening.
Top Picks and Performances
Houston Rockets guard, Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick, demonstrated why he was a top selection. Over four games, Sheppard averaged an impressive 20 points per game, coupled with 5.3 assists and 4.8 rebounds. His performance sets high expectations as he transitions into the regular season.
On the other hand, Washington Wizards' No. 2 pick, Alex Sarr, faced some struggles. Sarr had a particularly tough game where he shot 0 for 15 from the floor and averaged only 5.5 points per game during the league. This highlights the unpredictable nature of the Summer League, where even highly-touted prospects can face challenges.
The Atlanta Hawks' top overall pick, Zaccharie Risacher, had a short stint, playing in just two games. However, he showed his potential by finishing with 11 of 27 from the field, giving a glimpse of his scoring abilities.
Notable Rookies
Detroit Pistons' No. 5 pick, Ron Holland, had a mixed outing, finishing 4 of 17 in three-point shooting. The Charlotte Hornets' No. 6 pick, Tidjane Salaun, also faced difficulties from beyond the arc, going 1 of 10 across three games but still managed to average 9.0 points per game.
Portland Trail Blazers' seventh pick, Donovan Clingan, made his presence felt with 8.8 rebounds and 4.3 blocks per game, while also showcasing his versatility by knocking down three three-pointers.
Rob Dillingham, selected eighth by the Minnesota Timberwolves, had a standout moment with a team-high 25 points and 12 assists in a game against the Magic, indicating he could be an exciting player to watch.
Other Standouts
Chicago Bulls' No. 11 pick, Matas Buzelis, showed his prowess in a marquee game against the Warriors, scoring 28 points, pulling down five rebounds, and securing two steals. His performance over five games suggests he might be a key asset for the Bulls.
Memphis Grizzlies' ninth pick, Zach Edey, unfortunately, suffered an ankle injury against the Pelicans but showcased his potential in the Salt Lake City Summer League with 14 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks.
Two notable absences were the Oklahoma City Thunder's Nikola Topić, who did not participate due to a torn ACL, and Sacramento Kings' Devin Carter, sidelined by shoulder surgery.
Emerging Talents
Washington Wizards' No. 14 pick, Carlton Carrington, emerged as a bright spot. Recently turned 19, Carrington recorded a game with 13 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals against the Bucks, suggesting his all-around potential.
Utah Jazz's No. 10 pick, Cody Williams, was a standout in terms of consistency, playing in seven games across both the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues. Williams boasted an impressive 73.9% shooting percentage on shots in the paint.
Lastly, Stephon Castle, though playing only one game in the Las Vegas Summer League and three in the California Classic, left an impression. In his sole Las Vegas outing, Castle scored 22 points, grabbed five rebounds, dished out four assists, and made two three-pointers.
The Las Vegas Summer League has once again proven to be a fertile ground for young talent to shine and veterans to refine their games. As the dust settles, the performances observed here will undoubtedly influence team strategies and fan expectations for the forthcoming NBA season.