The NBA's Las Vegas Summer League is winding down, and it has been a riveting showcase of emerging talent vying for spots in the highly anticipated 2024-25 NBA season. Center stage was taken by the fresh crop of draftees, alongside a mix of hopefuls and second-year players, all hungry to make their mark.
Emerging Stars and Key Performances
Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, delivered an impressive performance in the summer league. Sheppard averaged 20 points per game, coupled with 5.3 assists and 4.8 rebounds over four games. His dynamic playmaking and scoring ability on the court undoubtedly established him as a player to watch as the new season approaches.
In contrast, Washington Wizards forward Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick, struggled to find his rhythm, notably shooting 0 for 15 from the floor in one game. Sarr averaged 5.5 points per game throughout the league, indicating that he will need to refine his shooting and game-time decisions moving forward.
Meanwhile, Zaccharie Risacher, the top overall pick by the Atlanta Hawks, showcased his potential despite limited appearances. Risacher participated in only two games but managed a solid shooting performance, going 11 of 27 from the field. His brief stint still hinted at his capability to contribute effectively to his team.
Notable Contributions and Missed Opportunities
Ron Holland, selected fifth by the Detroit Pistons, displayed promising aspects in his game, although his three-point shooting remained a work in progress, finishing at 4 of 17. On the other hand, Charlotte Hornets’ No. 6 pick Tidjane Salaun struggled from beyond the arc, going 1 of 10 over three games, managing an average of 9.0 points per game.
Donovan Clingan, picked seventh by the Portland Trail Blazers, impressed with his defensive and rebounding prowess. Averaging 8.8 rebounds and 4.3 blocks per game in just under 26 minutes, Clingan also showed his range with three made three-pointers, displaying versatility that could be valuable for his team.
Shining in Moments and Overcoming Adversities
Minnesota Timberwolves’ No. 8 pick Rob Dillingham had a standout game against the Magic, posting a team-high 25 points and 12 assists, underscoring his potential as a leading playmaker. Similarly, Matas Buzelis, the Chicago Bulls' No. 11 selection, had a remarkable showing against the Warriors, scoring 28 points, grabbing five rebounds, and making two steals over his five games.
Fellow draftee Zach Edey faced adversity, suffering an ankle injury during a game against the Pelicans. Before his injury, Edey recorded standout stats at the Salt Lake City Summer League with 14 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks.
Unfortunately, not all prospects got their chance to shine. Oklahoma City Thunder's Nikola Topić and Sacramento Kings' Devin Carter were sidelined due to injuries, with Topić recovering from a torn ACL and Carter undergoing shoulder surgery.
Fresh Faces Making Their Mark
Carlton Carrington, who recently turned 19, showed promise for the Washington Wizards. As the No. 14 pick, Carrington played impressively against the Bucks, recording 13 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Utah Jazz's Cody Williams also had a significant presence, playing in seven games across both the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas leagues, shooting an impressive 73.9% on shots in the paint.
Stephon Castle carved out his space during his appearances; playing one game in Las Vegas and three in the California Classic. In his sole Las Vegas game, Castle tallied 22 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two three-pointers, showing his all-around capabilities.
As the curtain falls on the 2024 Summer League, the performances of these young stars have provided a glimpse into the future of the NBA. While some draftees have proven their worth, there remains room for growth and adjustment for others. The upcoming 2024-25 NBA season promises to be exciting as these new talents continue to develop and integrate into their respective teams, showcasing the bright future of the league.