the five most impressive rookies coming out of the July showcase:
BRANDON CLARKE Forward | Grizzlies
How does a do-it-all forward fall to No. 21 in a pretty weak draft? He’s 22 years old in a world of one-and-done 19-year-olds. But all Clarke did was dominate on both ends of the floor and win Summer League MVP.
The former Gonzaga standout might aid the development of Jaren Jackson Jr. in the frontcourt and make Ja Morant’s transition to the NBA smoother.
TYLER HERRO Guard | Heat
The shooting was as expected – good and frequent – but Herro also showed an ability to play-make, score in transition and play some solid defense. He definitely opened some eyes.
NICKEIL ALEXANDER-WALKER Guard | Pelicans
Alexander-Walker did everything the Bulls were hoping Coby White would do. The converted shooting guard showed a surprising ability to play-make.
Shooting 13-for-32 from three-point range was nice. But add in his defense, and the Pelicans just might have a big piece to their rebuild not named Zion.
JAXSON HAYES Center | Pelicans
There’s a reason Hayes was on the Bulls’ radar at No. 7. They opted to go with White based on need, and only time will tell if that was the right decision.
Hayes is a ridiculous athlete. He’s raw, but a few years of getting knocked around in the paint and some much-needed time in the weight room might lead to great things.
ZION WILLIAMSON Forward | Pelicans
It was only a warmup and then nine minutes of playing time before a kneeto-knee collision shut him down for the rest of the Summer League. But what a warmup and nine minutes it was. ✶