The NBA's Las Vegas Summer League is winding down, and it has provided basketball enthusiasts a glimpse of the future stars likely to make an impact in the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season. The draft class of 2024, along with second-year players and other hopeful talents, showcased their skills, reinforcing some pre-draft projections while raising new questions about others.
Standout Performances
Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick, proved why he was such a high selection. Sheppard averaged 20 points per game, 5.3 assists, and 4.8 rebounds over four games, displaying his all-around capability on the court. At this early stage, he looks like he's poised to be a cornerstone for the Rockets.
Another standout was Rob Dillingham, selected No. 8 by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Dillingham capped off his summer league performance with a stellar game against the Magic, where he posted a team-high 25 points and 12 assists. His ability to control the game and deliver under pressure bodes well for the Timberwolves.
Matas Buzelis of the Chicago Bulls, the No. 11 pick, also turned heads, particularly in his game against the Warriors where he racked up 28 points, grabbed five rebounds, and made two steals. Having played in five games, Buzelis is quickly becoming a player to watch as we head into the new season.
Disappointments and Injuries
While some players shone brightly, others had a tougher time finding their footing. Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick by the Washington Wizards, struggled significantly in one of his games, shooting 0 for 15 from the floor. His summer league average of 5.5 points per game indicates that he might need more time to adjust to the pro level.
Injuries also cast a shadow over the summer league. Zach Edey of the Memphis Grizzlies, the No. 9 pick, suffered an ankle injury against the Pelicans, sidelining him during crucial development time. Before his injury, he did showcase his potential during the Salt Lake City Summer League, recording 14 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks, suggesting he could be a defensive anchor for the Grizzlies.
Nikola Topić of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Devin Carter of the Sacramento Kings were both unable to participate due to injuries. Topić tore his ACL, and Carter underwent shoulder surgery, delaying their much-anticipated debuts.
Other Notable Mentions
Top pick Zaccharie Risacher, drafted by the Atlanta Hawks, played only two games but showed flashes of his potential, finishing 11 of 27 from the field. Ron Holland, the Detroit Pistons' No. 5 pick, had a frustrating stint, struggling with his three-point shooting, finishing just 4 of 17 from beyond the arc.
Charlotte Hornets’ No. 6 pick, Tidjane Salaun, also found it tough from long range, going 1 of 10 across three games and averaging 9.0 points per game. Meanwhile, the Portland Trail Blazers’ Donovan Clingan, picked at No. 7, impressed with his defensive contributions, averaging 8.8 rebounds and 4.3 blocks in just under 26 minutes per game and even making three three-pointers.
Cody Williams, the Utah Jazz's No. 10 pick, showed efficiency in close quarters, shooting 73.9% on shots in the paint over seven games between the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues.
Carlton Carrington, picked 14th by the Washington Wizards, delivered a notable performance with 13 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals against the Bucks. At just 19 years old, Carrington's future looks bright.
Stephon Castle also made his mark, playing between the California Classic and the Las Vegas Summer League. In Las Vegas, he put up 22 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two three-pointers in his solo showing.
As we look ahead to the 2024-25 NBA season, the performances in the Summer League have set the stage for what promises to be an exciting season. With young talents ready to make their mark, the league's future looks both promising and unpredictable.