As the Las Vegas Summer League continues to give us a glimpse into the future of the NBA, Alex Sarr has become a focal point of discussion. Selected as the No. 2 overall pick by the Washington Wizards in the 2024 NBA Draft, the 7-foot center entered the league with a wave of anticipation. However, Sarr's recent performances have stirred up a mix of reactions among fans and analysts alike.
An Unforgettable Struggle
In Tuesday's game against the Portland Trail Blazers, Sarr endured what can only be described as a night to forget. The towering center recorded a scoreless 0-of-15 shooting performance, marking the most field goal attempts without a make at Summer League since 2017. With a variety of shots, primarily from the perimeter and including seven three-point attempts, not a single one found its mark. His attempts extended into the paint where runners and floaters also failed to produce points.
To compound his woes, Sarr faced a block from Donovan Clingan, the former UConn standout and the No. 7 pick, during one of his moves to the rim. Despite his struggles in scoring, Sarr did manage to pull down nine rebounds, dished out three assists, and recorded three blocks, showcasing his potential in other facets of the game.
A Broader Struggle
Observing Sarr's Summer League statistics reveals a concerning trend. In his three games so far, he has scored a total of 20 points on 8-of-41 shooting from the field. His attempts from beyond the arc have been similarly problematic, with just 2-of-17 finding the basket. These numbers have undoubtedly raised eyebrows among the Wizards' fandom, who initially greeted Sarr's selection with high hopes.
"This is what Sarr wanted. He wanted to be with the Wizards, and the Wizards wanted him. Many thought he was the best prospect in this draft because he's an exceptionally mobile 7-footer who can play on the perimeter," shared an unnamed source. "But the worry is his lack of physicality. He's going to need to put on 20-plus pounds of muscle to do what he wants on the floor. And I also don't fully trust the shooting from 3, which will be a key skill for him to hit on."
The Road Ahead
While Sarr's on-court performance raises questions, his journey with the Wizards is still in its early stages. The Wizards' coaching staff and development team are well aware of the areas needing improvement. Enhancing Sarr's physicality and shooting capability will be crucial for him to evolve into the player many believe he can become.
The question of Sarr's viability as a key player for the Wizards is on everyone's minds. His mobility at his size is a rare asset, particularly his ability to play on the perimeter. However, concerns over his lack of physical strength and erratic shooting from three-point range loom large. Fans who were once excited by his selection are now vocal about these challenges, hoping for a turnaround.
Despite the rocky start, the potential for Sarr to develop into a formidable two-way player remains. The initial hiccups in Summer League performances are not uncommon for rookies entering the high-stakes environment of professional basketball. As fans continue to watch with anxious anticipation, the onus lies on both Sarr and the Wizards' developmental squad to harness and sharpen his raw abilities.
The story of Alex Sarr is still being written. His journey in the NBA may have had a rough beginning, but the chapters ahead have yet to unfold. For now, Wizards fans will be watching closely, hoping to witness the emergence of the player they once cheered for so fervently on draft night.