As the curtains draw on the NBA's Las Vegas Summer League, the stage was a showcase for the 2024 draft class, consisting of second-year players and hopeful talents striving for a spot in the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season. The performances, notably diverse in success and impact, painted a vivid picture of what the future may hold for these emerging athletes.
Standout Performances
Houston Rockets' guard Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick, left a mark with an impressive display over four games, averaging 20 points per game, 5.3 assists, and 4.8 rebounds. Such consistency and poise suggest that Sheppard is forging a path to becoming a significant contributor for the Rockets.
Washington Wizards' forward Alex Sarr, however, faced a tougher time. Despite his lofty draft position at No. 2 overall, Sarr struggled with his shooting, highlighted by a game where he went 0 of 15 from the floor. Over the course of the summer league, he averaged 5.5 points per game.
Meanwhile, Atlanta Hawks' top pick, Zaccharie Risacher, gave limited glimpses of his potential. Playing only two games, Risacher finished 11 of 27 from the field, a performance that leaves much to be explored in his upcoming season.
Mixed Outcomes
Detroit Pistons’ No. 5 pick, Ron Holland, also showcased his struggles, particularly with his shooting from behind the arc, finishing 4 of 17 in three-point attempts. Charlotte Hornets' No. 6 pick Tidjane Salaun faced similar issues, as he went 1 of 10 from beyond the arc across three games, averaging 9.0 points per game.
On a more positive note, Portland Trail Blazers' Donovan Clingan, the No. 7 pick, demonstrated his defensive prowess, averaging 8.8 rebounds and 4.3 blocks in just under 26 minutes per game. Clingan also showed an unexpected range by making three three-pointers during the league.
Minnesota Timberwolves' No. 8 pick, Rob Dillingham, had a standout moment with a dominant performance against the Magic, where he posted a team-high 25 points and 12 assists, hinting at the Timberwolves' promising future with him on the roster.
Remarkable Individual Showings
Chicago Bulls' No. 11 pick, Matas Buzelis, participated in five games, where he left his mark with a stellar game against the Warriors, scoring 28 points, grabbing five rebounds, and making two steals. Memphis Grizzlies’ No. 9 pick, Zach Edey, had a mix of highs and lows. Although he suffered an ankle injury against the Pelicans, he recorded 14 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks during his stint in the Salt Lake City Summer League.
Washington Wizards' Carlton Carrington, the No. 14 pick, delivered an all-around performance with 13 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals against the Bucks. Carrington, who recently turned 19, appears to be ready to make a significant leap into the professional arena.
Missed Opportunities
Not all rookies had the chance to shine. Oklahoma City Thunder’s Nikola Topić was sidelined due to a torn ACL, and Sacramento Kings' Devin Carter was out following shoulder surgery, leaving their teams and fans to contemplate what could have been.
Emerging Talents
Utah Jazz's No. 10 pick, Cody Williams, played in seven games between the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues, impressing with a 73.9% shooting percentage on shots in the paint. Stephon Castle, participating in the Las Vegas Summer League and the California Classic, showcased his versatility. During his solo Las Vegas outing, Castle tallied 22 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two three-pointers.
As the NBA Summer League wraps up, the rookies have provided a varied tapestry of talent, resilience, and room for growth. Each player’s journey has just begun, promising an intriguing 2024-25 NBA season ahead.