The first week of the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas has showcased the impressive potential of young talents vying for a spot in the 2024 NBA draft. Contrary to pre-draft talks of a historically weak class, many rookies have risen to the occasion, proving that the notion was exaggerated.
Rookies Step Up
Zaccharie Risacher, Alex Sarr, Reed Sheppard, Stephon Castle, Matas Buzelis, and Bub Carrington delivered standout performances on Day 1. These young players have shown a level of readiness that has surprised many scouts and executives. Among them, Reed Sheppard has particularly impressed with his feel for the game and extraordinary confidence. One NBA executive remarked, "Reed Sheppard, for example, has blown me away with his feel for the game and confidence. These guys are different players now than they were in March."
Older rookies such as Dalton Knecht, Tristan da Silva, and Terrence Shannon Jr. also demonstrated their preparedness, despite their advanced ages for rookies. Meanwhile, younger long-term prospects like Tidjane Salaun, Cody Williams, and Kel'el Ware showed more readiness than anticipated, further dispelling concerns about the draft class.
Pistons rookie Ron Holland II voiced his frustration over the criticism of the draft class, saying, "It definitely makes me mad that people would say that. But we go out here and play the game of basketball and just show everybody, show the whole world why we really want [to be] the best competitive class."
Bronny James' Development
Bronny James has had a mixed showing in the summer league, representing the Lakers against the Rockets, Celtics, and Hawks. Though he struggled with confidence early on, he showed perseverance and ended his games with notable performances. Lakers coach JJ Redick emphasized the team's long-term developmental plans for James, stating, "He is a development player. That's how we're looking at Bronny. He's certainly going to spend time with the Lakers. He will spend time as well in the G League."
The intense scrutiny surrounding James has been acknowledged by various individuals within the league. As one Western Conference scout noted, "No one can withstand the scrutiny he is under."
Clippers and Paul George Part Ways
Off the court, the LA Clippers and Paul George were unable to come to terms on a contract extension, leading to George signing with the Philadelphia 76ers. The Clippers had offered George a deal, but without a no-trade clause, and negotiations began at around $60 million for two years. Discussions ultimately broke down as the Clippers aimed to maintain future cap flexibility. Clippers president Lawrence Frank explained, "Team building is completely different when your best players are in their 30s and with the second apron. What happens is all the team-building tools are completely stripped away and you're stuck."
Denver Nuggets Eye Westbrook
The Denver Nuggets are reportedly interested in acquiring Russell Westbrook as a veteran backup point guard. This move aligns with their strategy of bolstering their roster despite the new collective bargaining agreement, which introduces a second luxury-tax apron. Nuggets rookie DaRon Holmes II, unfortunately, suffered a torn Achilles in summer league play, sidelining him for the upcoming season. Holmes was the 22nd overall pick in the draft and averaged 20.4 points and 8.5 rebounds at Dayton.
Positive Reception of Two-Day Draft Format
The new two-day draft format has received positive feedback from NBA executives. The additional time allowed teams to regroup after the first night, enabling better decisions and numerous trade scenarios. One executive lauded the new system, saying, "Having the ability to regroup after the first night and then meet most of the following day created a great process for our group in determining our next moves."
Another executive added, "This is how billion-dollar businesses like ours should be operated. Especially in this new world of staring down the second apron with tens of millions of dollars in potential luxury tax implications on the line."
Though some front office members felt that they simply needed a longer second round with more time between picks, the general consensus was that the reset between days led to better internal and external conversations.
As the summer league continues to unfold, the performances in Las Vegas will keep shaping opinions about the 2024 draft class. From standout rookies to intriguing veterans, the NBA's future is visibly taking shape in these early days.