The NBA's Las Vegas Summer League is nearing its conclusion, offering basketball fans glimpses of the league’s future talent. Among the most closely watched newcomers were standout selections from the 2024 NBA Draft, including aspiring young stars and second-year players eager to cement their roles ahead of the 2024-25 season.
Top Draft Picks Under the Spotlight
Houston Rockets' Reed Sheppard, chosen third overall, has posted impressive numbers, averaging 20 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.8 rebounds over four games. His performance signals a promising upcoming season, highlighting his potential to become a key contributor for Houston.
Conversely, Washington Wizards' Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick, faced significant struggles. In one particular game, Sarr went 0 for 15 from the floor. Despite this setback, he managed to average 5.5 points per game during the Summer League, showing resilience and room for growth.
The Atlanta Hawks’ top pick, Zaccharie Risacher, participated in only two games, recording 11 out of 27 shots from the field. While limited in his playtime, Risacher’s performance still holds promise as he prepares for the regular season.
Mixed Performances Among Lottery Picks
The Detroit Pistons' fifth pick, Ron Holland, had a trying encounter with the three-point line, making only 4 of 17 attempts. The Charlotte Hornets also experienced a subpar shooting performance from their No. 6 pick, Tidjane Salaun, who went 1 for 10 from beyond the arc in three games, averaging 9.0 points per outing.
Portland Trail Blazers’ Donovan Clingan, the seventh pick, showcased his defensive prowess by averaging 8.8 rebounds and 4.3 blocks in just under 26 minutes per game. Clingan also demonstrated his versatility by making three three-pointers during the league.
Rob Dillingham, the eighth overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves, had a standout performance against the Magic, leading his team with 25 points and 12 assists. This showing hints at his potential to make an immediate impact for Minnesota.
Challenges and Breakout Performances
Matas Buzelis, selected 11th by the Chicago Bulls, consistently contributed in five games. His standout performance came against the Warriors, where he scored 28 points, grabbed five rebounds, and recorded two steals, indicating his all-around capability.
Meanwhile, Zach Edey encountered adversity with an ankle injury against the Pelicans, but his contributions in the Salt Lake City Summer League were notable, amassing 14 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks.
For the Oklahoma City Thunder, Nikola Topić’s participation was hindered by a torn ACL, sidelining him for the entire Summer League. Similarly, Sacramento Kings’ Devin Carter missed out due to shoulder surgery, delaying their professional debuts.
Solid Foundation for Future Stars
The Washington Wizards’ 14th pick, Carlton Carrington, excelled in a game against the Bucks with an impressive stat line: 13 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals. A recently turned 19-year-old, Carrington’s maturity on the court stood out.
Utah Jazz’s No. 10 pick, Cody Williams, saw extensive playtime, participating in seven games between the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas leagues. Williams displayed remarkable efficiency in the paint, shooting at 73.9%.
Finally, Stephon Castle had a limited showing in the Las Vegas Summer League, participating in one game but leaving a mark with 22 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two three-pointers. His brief appearance in Las Vegas, coupled with three games in the California Classic, provided a glimpse into his potential.
As the Summer League wraps up, these emerging talents have showcased both promise and areas for growth. Their performances provide a foundation upon which their NBA careers can develop, leaving fans eager to see how these rookies will evolve when the regular season commences.