As the Las Vegas Summer League gears up to start on Friday, basketball fans are in for nearly two weeks of intense hoops action. The highlight of the opening day includes the defending summer league champions Cleveland Cavaliers taking on the Minnesota Timberwolves, among a schedule packed with seven thrilling matchups.
The Las Vegas Summer League traditionally follows the California Classic and the Salt Lake City Summer League, setting the stage for top picks from the 2024 NBA Draft to showcase their talents. This year's event is led by Atlanta Hawks' Zacharie Risacher and Washington Wizards' Alex Sarr, who occupy the top two picks from the draft. Another notable rookie, Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 pick, will also be under the spotlight.
Rookies Under the Spotlight
All eyes will be on Bronny James, whose summer league debut so far has been somewhat modest. In his initial outings during the California Classic, James shot 3-of-12 from the floor across two games. His final game against Miami saw him taking just three shots, all in the first half. Despite the slow start, James contributed in other areas, pulling down seven rebounds, dishing out five assists, blocking three shots, and stealing the ball twice, giving glimpses of his comprehensive game.
Another rookie making waves is Zach Edey, who turned heads with his performance in his first summer league game. Edey posted an impressive stat line with 14 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks in 33 minutes against Utah. It's a promising start for Edey, who will look to build on this momentum as the summer league progresses.
Veterans Make Their Return
The Las Vegas Summer League will also feature several players making their second appearances. Fans can expect to see familiar faces like Dalton Knecht, Stephon Castle, and Cody Williams alongside Bronny James. Their experience from previous summer leagues will be crucial in their development as they aim to make a significant impact and vie for roster spots in the regular season.
Notable Performances to Watch
Among the standout performances leading up to the Las Vegas Summer League, Dillon Jones scored 21 points and grabbed seven rebounds against the Utah Jazz, while Jaylen Wells shone brightly with 27 points, crowned by a game-winning shot against the 76ers. Such performances not only provide excitement to the summer league but also highlight players to watch as potential future stars in the NBA.
Another player to keep an eye on is Jamal Shead, who was the No. 45 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Although lower in the draft order, Shead's journey from the collegiate level, where he played one season with Kentucky, to the professional level will be closely monitored by scouts and fans alike. Similarly, Yves Missi, who played for Baylor, brings his college experience to the forefront as he aims to make his mark in the summer league.
Trades and Team Dynamics
Player movements also add an interesting narrative to the summer league. Steven Adams, a prominent player, was dealt by the Memphis Grizzlies at the trade deadline, showcasing the dynamic nature of the league. Jonas Valanciunas, now with the Washington Wizards, adds a veteran presence to the team, potentially providing mentorship to rookie Alex Sarr.
The anticipation for the games is palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting to see how these new draftees and returning players perform. The Los Angeles Lakers' showdown with the Houston Rockets on Friday is one of the many anticipated matchups set to thrill audiences. As the Las Vegas Summer League unfolds, it promises to be a compelling mix of established talents and emerging stars striving to carve out their niches in the competitive world of professional basketball.