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2015 NBA Summer League Preview/Discussion Thread
Posted on 7/3/15 at 9:03 pm
Posted on 7/3/15 at 9:03 pm
It's the most wonderf...Okay, maybe not the best time, but with free agency starting to die down, NBA diehard fans are given yet another treat, starting tomorrow the 4th. Summer League will be underway and there are some, like myself, on here that love it. Let's just get into it
Orlando (July 4th-10th)
Schedule
Brooklyn Nets:
Roster
Cliff Alexander, who was a top 5 2015 recruit, went undrafted and picked up by the Nets. A big post guy has the chance to make the Nets roster. Markel Brown will likely be the leading scorer on this squad with his ability to score in a number of ways. First rounder Rondae Hollis-Jefferson has a fun game to watch and should be featured. Cory Jefferson played in 50 games last year, and while he may be remembered for the airball 3, he still has an exciting game to watch.
Charlotte Hornets
Roster
After turning down one hell of a haul from Boston, the Hornets will help 9th pick Frank Kaminsky will show out with his versatile low-post game. Expect P.J. Hairston to lead this team in scoring with his love of shooting. The possible med school student Aaron Craft is putting that on pause for now. His defense and energy is always entertaining. Troy Daniels has bounced around the NBA but we all know he can shoot the 3 extremely well.
Detroit Pistons
Roster
Not much on this squad, but 8th pick Stanley Johnson will be fun to watch with his athleticism and scoring ability. Quincy Miller is always fun to watch in these games, but can he ever find a secure NBA home?
Indiana Pacers
Roster
Another squad that may not have too much. 11th pick Myles Turner is an athletic center that will be hoping to show Indiana he can start if Hibbert can go. Also, he can shoot free throws extremely well, a rarity for NBA centers. Solomon Hill has started to find his NBA stride, but the 2013 first round reach still has a lot to prove. I feel the commentators are going to fall in love with Matt Stainbrook with just his style of play. Joe Young can definitely fill up the basket.
Los Angeles Clippers
Roster
Here's an entertaining name for you: Royce White. He is giving the NBA yet another try. Will be fun to see if he still has it because he does have an entertaining game. C.J. Wilcox and Jordan Hamilton can both shoot it, but they will need to do more if they want to see NBA time. Patric Young would have been fun, but he signed a deal with Olympiacos and will not be there. Eric Griffin is a personal favorite of mine after being on the Texas Legends for his high energy and athleticism.
Memphis (Soak It In RTR)
Roster
Jarnell Stokes will be looking to muscle a lot of his defenders with his size and strength. Jordan Adams can shoot the rock, but can he do enough to earn a spot on a team in need of outside shooting? Pitino's favorite Russ Smith can be a fun point guard to watch and will look to earn an NBA spot. For you LSU fans, here's a unique one: Darnell Lazare
Miami Heat
Roster
The most entertaining team in Orlando. Pat Riley may have been doing backflips when Justise Winslowfell to them at the 10th pick. His defense and offensive repertoire will be on display. Hassan Whitesideis quickly becoming one of the more exciting centers to watch, but will need to use this time to focus on his fouling. Henry "Bill" Walker is always due for an exciting dunk or scoring outburst. James Ennis is an athletic guard who can shoot and take it to the basket, and could find himself earning some playing time for the Heat. Shabazz Napier has been disappointed twice since joining the Heat with LeBron leaving him and the Heat trading for Goran Dragic, killing his playing time. He will look to take minutes from Mario Chalmers. Zoran Dragic may not be as talented as his brother, but he has an entertaining game to watch.
Oklahoma City Thunder
LINK
Unfortunately, a fractured finger will sideline 14th pick Cameron Payne for Summer League ball. Mitch McGary put on a show last year in Orlando and will look to do it again to gain more minutes and possibly start if Enes Kanter leaves. Dakari Johnson always was in the shadows at Kentucky of other top recruits, but will now get to show his worth and imposing size.
Orlando Magic Blue
Roster
The second most entertaining team behind Miami. Elfrid Payton was a first team All-Rookie member, but will take this time to work more on his shot that he has been progressing with over the offseason. Injuries slowed the rookie season of Aaron Gordon, but with an athleticism similar to Blake Griffin, he's always good for a highlight or two. If he doesn't, 5th pick Mario Hezonjacan cover for him. Fran Fraschilla put it best on draft night and saying he could be like J.R. Smith with an ability to win the dunk and 3-point contest. Tyler Harvey led the nation in scoring last year, so it will be a challenge to see if that can translate to the next level.
Orlando Magic White
Roster
Not many household names, but could prove to be entertaining. Sons of former NBAers, Antoine Mason and Glen Rice Jr. both know how to score with Mason leading the nation in scoring during the 2013 season. Will be interesting to see Rice, who is now at 208 pounds after once playing at 252. The Wizards made a mistake in 2011, taking Chris Singleton with the 18th pick as he will be seeking to find yet another NBA home with his defense and athleticism. Melvin Ejim was a college favorite of mine at Iowa State but was overshadowed by George Niang. Florida fans will be happy to see Scottie Wilbekin
Orlando (July 4th-10th)
Schedule
Brooklyn Nets:
Roster
Cliff Alexander, who was a top 5 2015 recruit, went undrafted and picked up by the Nets. A big post guy has the chance to make the Nets roster. Markel Brown will likely be the leading scorer on this squad with his ability to score in a number of ways. First rounder Rondae Hollis-Jefferson has a fun game to watch and should be featured. Cory Jefferson played in 50 games last year, and while he may be remembered for the airball 3, he still has an exciting game to watch.
Charlotte Hornets
Roster
After turning down one hell of a haul from Boston, the Hornets will help 9th pick Frank Kaminsky will show out with his versatile low-post game. Expect P.J. Hairston to lead this team in scoring with his love of shooting. The possible med school student Aaron Craft is putting that on pause for now. His defense and energy is always entertaining. Troy Daniels has bounced around the NBA but we all know he can shoot the 3 extremely well.
Detroit Pistons
Roster
Not much on this squad, but 8th pick Stanley Johnson will be fun to watch with his athleticism and scoring ability. Quincy Miller is always fun to watch in these games, but can he ever find a secure NBA home?
Indiana Pacers
Roster
Another squad that may not have too much. 11th pick Myles Turner is an athletic center that will be hoping to show Indiana he can start if Hibbert can go. Also, he can shoot free throws extremely well, a rarity for NBA centers. Solomon Hill has started to find his NBA stride, but the 2013 first round reach still has a lot to prove. I feel the commentators are going to fall in love with Matt Stainbrook with just his style of play. Joe Young can definitely fill up the basket.
Los Angeles Clippers
Roster
Here's an entertaining name for you: Royce White. He is giving the NBA yet another try. Will be fun to see if he still has it because he does have an entertaining game. C.J. Wilcox and Jordan Hamilton can both shoot it, but they will need to do more if they want to see NBA time. Patric Young would have been fun, but he signed a deal with Olympiacos and will not be there. Eric Griffin is a personal favorite of mine after being on the Texas Legends for his high energy and athleticism.
Memphis (Soak It In RTR)
Roster
Jarnell Stokes will be looking to muscle a lot of his defenders with his size and strength. Jordan Adams can shoot the rock, but can he do enough to earn a spot on a team in need of outside shooting? Pitino's favorite Russ Smith can be a fun point guard to watch and will look to earn an NBA spot. For you LSU fans, here's a unique one: Darnell Lazare
Miami Heat
Roster
The most entertaining team in Orlando. Pat Riley may have been doing backflips when Justise Winslowfell to them at the 10th pick. His defense and offensive repertoire will be on display. Hassan Whitesideis quickly becoming one of the more exciting centers to watch, but will need to use this time to focus on his fouling. Henry "Bill" Walker is always due for an exciting dunk or scoring outburst. James Ennis is an athletic guard who can shoot and take it to the basket, and could find himself earning some playing time for the Heat. Shabazz Napier has been disappointed twice since joining the Heat with LeBron leaving him and the Heat trading for Goran Dragic, killing his playing time. He will look to take minutes from Mario Chalmers. Zoran Dragic may not be as talented as his brother, but he has an entertaining game to watch.
Oklahoma City Thunder
LINK
Unfortunately, a fractured finger will sideline 14th pick Cameron Payne for Summer League ball. Mitch McGary put on a show last year in Orlando and will look to do it again to gain more minutes and possibly start if Enes Kanter leaves. Dakari Johnson always was in the shadows at Kentucky of other top recruits, but will now get to show his worth and imposing size.
Orlando Magic Blue
Roster
The second most entertaining team behind Miami. Elfrid Payton was a first team All-Rookie member, but will take this time to work more on his shot that he has been progressing with over the offseason. Injuries slowed the rookie season of Aaron Gordon, but with an athleticism similar to Blake Griffin, he's always good for a highlight or two. If he doesn't, 5th pick Mario Hezonjacan cover for him. Fran Fraschilla put it best on draft night and saying he could be like J.R. Smith with an ability to win the dunk and 3-point contest. Tyler Harvey led the nation in scoring last year, so it will be a challenge to see if that can translate to the next level.
Orlando Magic White
Roster
Not many household names, but could prove to be entertaining. Sons of former NBAers, Antoine Mason and Glen Rice Jr. both know how to score with Mason leading the nation in scoring during the 2013 season. Will be interesting to see Rice, who is now at 208 pounds after once playing at 252. The Wizards made a mistake in 2011, taking Chris Singleton with the 18th pick as he will be seeking to find yet another NBA home with his defense and athleticism. Melvin Ejim was a college favorite of mine at Iowa State but was overshadowed by George Niang. Florida fans will be happy to see Scottie Wilbekin
4
Posted on 7/3/15 at 9:03 pm to GeauxAggie972
Utah (July 6th-9th)
Schedule
All four teams will also play in the Las Vegas Summer League
Boston Celtics
Roster (Scroll down to Stats)
A preview of what may likely wind up being the most entertaining team in Las Vegas with four first-rounders. All Rookie 2nd Team member Marcus Smart is the epitome of hustle that found himself in a crowded backcourt. His hard work ethic will look to show as he continues to improve on his shot. Overcoming injuries shortened the rookie season of James Young, but the 2014 17th pick will look to prove his worth after missing last year's Summer League. Terry Rozier was taken 16th and has an entertaining scoring repertoire, but at 6'2" he will have to show he can play point guard to find time in that same crowded backcourt. R.J. Hunter can light up the nets (ignore his college FG and 3-point%) and doesn't need much room to get off a shot. Danny Ainge had to have been ecstatic when Jordan Mickey was there at 33 for them as they wanted to spend a first rounder on him. The pogo stick shot blocker has a smoother path to NBA minutes than the previous two 2015 picks but will still have to show something on the offensive side.
Philadelphia 76ers
Roster(again, scroll down to stats)
All of the focus will be on 3rd pick Jahlil Okafor. He didn't seem too happy at the press conference knowing he may be behind Joel Embiid and Nerlens Noel (who would be here but is resting after playing a lot in 2014-15) in the starting lineup. Either way, the bigman is strong in his post moves and is a solid passer out of the post. 58th pick J.P. Tokoto could have gone higher had he stayed at UNC, but he felt he was being used wrongly there. He can be an entertaining player with his athleticism and passing ability, but he will have to limit the turnover to garner an NBA spot. Sam Thompson is another one that should put up some highlights in the coming days with his pogo stick dunking. Jerami Grant played in 65 games last year and will look to improve on his offense and shooting.
San Antonio Spurs
Roster(Seriously, you can't just set up a roster on the site?)
The Spurs normally don't have an exciting roster as either their NBA roster doesn't need the work and their draft picks are still overseas. This year isn't much different. Kyle Anderson averaged 21.3 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 4.8 APG, 2 SPG and 1.5 BPG in 21 D-League games and will look to show Pops he can garner NBA minutes with his great passing ability for a 6'9" forward. Livio Jean-Charles was the 2013 Spurs first-rounder but struggled this year overseas after losing the previous season to a knee injury. He only played 14 MPG for his team but the Spurs hope some extended minutes can help.
Utah Jazz
Roster(Okay, whatever)
Dante Exum is an exciting guard with his point-guard like skills in a 6'6" shooting guard, but he will need to improve on his shooting and his decision-making if he wants to garner more minutes. Trey Lyles, the 12th selection, will finally get his chance to show what he's got after being subdued on the talent-heavy Kentucky squad. They want him to play small forward but he will need to show he can shoot to live up to that. Rodney Hood played in 50 games and like Exum is an intriguing guard with his 6'8" frame and offensive abilities.
Las Vegas (July 10th-20th)
Schedule
Atlanta
Roster
I just don't see much here. Edy Tavares will excite Hawks fans in possibly their new back-up big, although he will face stiff competition from Tiago Splitter. Maybe Mike Muscala or Brandon Ashley could drum up some interest but it's a weak squad.
Boston Celtics
Roster
See writeup in Utah section
Brooklyn Nets:
Roster
See writeup in Orlando section
Chicago Bulls
Roster
All eyes will be on two players: Doug McDermott and Bobby Portis. Dougie Buckets will be looking to gain more playing time after logging only 8.9 MPG in 36 games. He can light up the nets and will look to show he can do more than that. Meanwhile, Portis, the 22nd pick, has a tough road ahead of him for playing time, but the athletic big can score in a variety of ways on offense. Little surprised Tony Snell is not included.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Roster
No real star talent, but some intriguing players to watch. Rakeem Christmas is an intriguing power forward with his set of skills in a 250-pound frame. Tyler Haws out of BYU can fill up the nets with his scoring ability. Sir'Dominic Pointer not only has a fancy name, but has athleticism that can be put on display. Keifer Sykes was once regarded as one of the top point guards in the 2015 class, but will now likely be D-League bound. Hell, even 2008 first-rounder D.J. White is giving it one more shot.
Dallas Mavericks
Roster
Justin Anderson will be the focal point of this squad. The 3-and-D athlete could garner a lot of minutes if Wesley Matthews' rehab takes longer. The publicity stunt Satnam Singh will play and you can watch someone actually slower than Dirk Nowitzki and Roy Hibbert. The athletic Dwight Powell could gain some playing time next season with a solid outing. 2010 first rounder Jordan Crawford will be looking to revive his NBA career. Also, he dunked on LeBron, remember that?
Denver Nuggets
Roster
Emmanuel Mudiay will be on display and a solid performance could spell the end of Ty Lawson's days in Denver. At 6'5", Mudiay is a big point guard and will look to show his year overseas helped rather than hindered his progression. Gary Harris put on a scoring show last year at the Summer League and will look to do the same to garner more minutes. Outside of those two, there isn't much else except for maybe Jamaal Franklin.
Golden State Warriors
Roster
The Warriors were surprised when Kevon Looney dropped to them at the last pick in the first round. A hip injury scared teams, but Looney's rebounding and strong offense will be on display. James Michael McAdoo will compete with Looney to earn the minutes the departing David Lee is leaving behind. McAdoo is very athletic at the position but can get a little out of control. The big center Ognjen Kuzmic has Warriors fans intrigued about his future, but the center position is pretty solid.
Schedule
All four teams will also play in the Las Vegas Summer League
Boston Celtics
Roster (Scroll down to Stats)
A preview of what may likely wind up being the most entertaining team in Las Vegas with four first-rounders. All Rookie 2nd Team member Marcus Smart is the epitome of hustle that found himself in a crowded backcourt. His hard work ethic will look to show as he continues to improve on his shot. Overcoming injuries shortened the rookie season of James Young, but the 2014 17th pick will look to prove his worth after missing last year's Summer League. Terry Rozier was taken 16th and has an entertaining scoring repertoire, but at 6'2" he will have to show he can play point guard to find time in that same crowded backcourt. R.J. Hunter can light up the nets (ignore his college FG and 3-point%) and doesn't need much room to get off a shot. Danny Ainge had to have been ecstatic when Jordan Mickey was there at 33 for them as they wanted to spend a first rounder on him. The pogo stick shot blocker has a smoother path to NBA minutes than the previous two 2015 picks but will still have to show something on the offensive side.
Philadelphia 76ers
Roster(again, scroll down to stats)
All of the focus will be on 3rd pick Jahlil Okafor. He didn't seem too happy at the press conference knowing he may be behind Joel Embiid and Nerlens Noel (who would be here but is resting after playing a lot in 2014-15) in the starting lineup. Either way, the bigman is strong in his post moves and is a solid passer out of the post. 58th pick J.P. Tokoto could have gone higher had he stayed at UNC, but he felt he was being used wrongly there. He can be an entertaining player with his athleticism and passing ability, but he will have to limit the turnover to garner an NBA spot. Sam Thompson is another one that should put up some highlights in the coming days with his pogo stick dunking. Jerami Grant played in 65 games last year and will look to improve on his offense and shooting.
San Antonio Spurs
Roster(Seriously, you can't just set up a roster on the site?)
The Spurs normally don't have an exciting roster as either their NBA roster doesn't need the work and their draft picks are still overseas. This year isn't much different. Kyle Anderson averaged 21.3 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 4.8 APG, 2 SPG and 1.5 BPG in 21 D-League games and will look to show Pops he can garner NBA minutes with his great passing ability for a 6'9" forward. Livio Jean-Charles was the 2013 Spurs first-rounder but struggled this year overseas after losing the previous season to a knee injury. He only played 14 MPG for his team but the Spurs hope some extended minutes can help.
Utah Jazz
Roster(Okay, whatever)
Dante Exum is an exciting guard with his point-guard like skills in a 6'6" shooting guard, but he will need to improve on his shooting and his decision-making if he wants to garner more minutes. Trey Lyles, the 12th selection, will finally get his chance to show what he's got after being subdued on the talent-heavy Kentucky squad. They want him to play small forward but he will need to show he can shoot to live up to that. Rodney Hood played in 50 games and like Exum is an intriguing guard with his 6'8" frame and offensive abilities.
Las Vegas (July 10th-20th)
Schedule
Atlanta
Roster
I just don't see much here. Edy Tavares will excite Hawks fans in possibly their new back-up big, although he will face stiff competition from Tiago Splitter. Maybe Mike Muscala or Brandon Ashley could drum up some interest but it's a weak squad.
Boston Celtics
Roster
See writeup in Utah section
Brooklyn Nets:
Roster
See writeup in Orlando section
Chicago Bulls
Roster
All eyes will be on two players: Doug McDermott and Bobby Portis. Dougie Buckets will be looking to gain more playing time after logging only 8.9 MPG in 36 games. He can light up the nets and will look to show he can do more than that. Meanwhile, Portis, the 22nd pick, has a tough road ahead of him for playing time, but the athletic big can score in a variety of ways on offense. Little surprised Tony Snell is not included.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Roster
No real star talent, but some intriguing players to watch. Rakeem Christmas is an intriguing power forward with his set of skills in a 250-pound frame. Tyler Haws out of BYU can fill up the nets with his scoring ability. Sir'Dominic Pointer not only has a fancy name, but has athleticism that can be put on display. Keifer Sykes was once regarded as one of the top point guards in the 2015 class, but will now likely be D-League bound. Hell, even 2008 first-rounder D.J. White is giving it one more shot.
Dallas Mavericks
Roster
Justin Anderson will be the focal point of this squad. The 3-and-D athlete could garner a lot of minutes if Wesley Matthews' rehab takes longer. The publicity stunt Satnam Singh will play and you can watch someone actually slower than Dirk Nowitzki and Roy Hibbert. The athletic Dwight Powell could gain some playing time next season with a solid outing. 2010 first rounder Jordan Crawford will be looking to revive his NBA career. Also, he dunked on LeBron, remember that?
Denver Nuggets
Roster
Emmanuel Mudiay will be on display and a solid performance could spell the end of Ty Lawson's days in Denver. At 6'5", Mudiay is a big point guard and will look to show his year overseas helped rather than hindered his progression. Gary Harris put on a scoring show last year at the Summer League and will look to do the same to garner more minutes. Outside of those two, there isn't much else except for maybe Jamaal Franklin.
Golden State Warriors
Roster
The Warriors were surprised when Kevon Looney dropped to them at the last pick in the first round. A hip injury scared teams, but Looney's rebounding and strong offense will be on display. James Michael McAdoo will compete with Looney to earn the minutes the departing David Lee is leaving behind. McAdoo is very athletic at the position but can get a little out of control. The big center Ognjen Kuzmic has Warriors fans intrigued about his future, but the center position is pretty solid.
This post was edited on 7/9/15 at 7:55 pm
Posted on 7/3/15 at 9:03 pm to GeauxAggie972
Houston Rockets
Roster
The Rockets will have one entertaining team in Vegas. Clint Capela had some solid moments in the postseason but will need to show more consistency if the athletic big wants to continue gaining more minutes. Even though Patrick Beverley is back, Nick Johnson could be in the backup PG conversation with his athleticism. Sam Dekker, the 18th pick, can do a little bit of everything and will likely be backing up Trevor Ariza. Montrezl Harrell loves to dunk and can bring some excitement to the games. Christian Wood will look to prove his post-draft frustration was warranted after going undrafted.
Los Angeles Lakers
Roster
Will definitely make a run at one of the best teams in Vegas. Jordan Clarkson was named to the All-Rookie First Team, putting up 16, 5 and 4 in his 32 starts. He may even be overshadowed by another point guard in D'Angelo Russell. The second pick in the draft may be one of the best passing point guards to come out in awhile and will have a plethora of options to find in Vegas. Julius Randle's rookie campaign lasted all of 14 minutes due to a fractured tibia. With the extended rest, he should be fine and offers a unique set of athleticism for a guy his size and reportedly has been working on his 3-point shooting. Like his daddy before him, Larry Nance Jr. knows how to get up. The athlete will need to improve on the other aspects of his game with the Lakers possibly counting on him this year. To say Robert Upshaw's college career was bumpy would be an understatement. After getting dismissed from two colleges, Upshaw will look to show his massive size and surprising athleticism was worth the risk as he looks to backup new acquisition Roy Hibbert. Tarik Black will challenge him for those minutes with his imposing frame and knack for battling on the boards.
Miami Heat
See Orlando section
Milwaukee Bucks
Roster
Every spectator had their eyes set on the Bucks last year to see Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jabari Parker. Both are absent this go around but Bucks fans will be watching Rashad Vaughn. Considered as one of the top shooters in the 2015 draft, the 17th pick will be counted on to help Khris Middleton provide outside shooting and court spacing for the Bucks this year. Recent acquisitions may prohibit Johnny O'Bryant III from earning more minutes this coming season, but he has a nice post-up game and can attack the boards.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Roster
If people weren't watching the Bucks, they had their eyes set on Minnesota to see their recent first pick acquisition Andrew Wiggins and the high-flying Zach LaVine. Unfortunately, only LaVine returns from that duo but he can definitely put on a show as he will look to improve his point-guard abilities. Oh yeah, and there's that Karl Anthony-Towns guy as well. The 2015 first pick will be slotted in to start next to Nikola Pekovic and offers a much different look with his athleticism and shot-blocking ability than Pekovic. Most don't even remember Adreian Payne getting dealt to Minnesota, but Payne can be a solid backup power forward, but will need to heavily work on his shooting that teams once coveted. Tyus Jones came up big in the national title game, but he will have to show his game can translate at the next level. Brady Heslip made 113 threes in 20 D-League games. That's an average of nearly 6 a game for those that don't want to do the math. Others to watch include the high-flying Sam Thompson and the ball-handling Lorenzo Brown.
NBA D-League Select
Roster
I won't waste your time. 2009 second overall pick Hasheem Thabeet is the only thing really to watch. Maybe Taylor Griffin just because he's Blake's brother, but meh.
New Orleans Pelicans
Roster
Not much better than the D-League Select squad. Seth Curry can shoot the three like his family tree, shooting nearly 47% in 43 D-League games. Jarvis Varnado can block shots, but outside of that, this cupboard is pretty bare.
New York Knicks
Roster
Everyone will be watching for Kristaps Porzingis, but following a hip injury 5 minutes into his first Knicks practice, they may take it easy with him and limit his playing time in Vegas. Either way, the big man brings a game reminiscent of Dirk, but will have to show he can play defense at that level. The Knicks shipped Tim Hardaway Jr. away for Jerian Grant, so expectations may be a little high for the guy likely to start at point guard next season. Cleanthony Early played in 39 games and Langston Galloway played in 45 as both players will look to show they are worth more playing time. Early has an intriguing offensive game, while Galloway can shoot the ball. Yes, Thanasis Antetokounmpo is the brother of Giannis and is very athletic like Giannis but a lot more raw. Ricky Ledo is a personal favorite of mine and can score in a variety of ways.
Philadelphia 76ers
Roster
This squad will be a good bit different from the Utah Summer League team, but all of the focus will still be on 3rd pick Jahlil Okafor. He didn't seem too happy at the press conference knowing he may be behind Joel Embiid and Nerlens Noel (who would be here but is resting after playing a lot in 2014-15) in the starting lineup. Either way, the bigman is strong in his post moves and is a solid passer out of the post. JaKarr Sampson played in 74 games for the 76ers and the athletic forward will look to expand on his offensive repertoire. Pierre Jackson is a fun point guard to watch and will be looking for a main roster spot.
Phoenix Suns
Roster
The 13th pick Devin Booker knows how to shoot it and will be counted on to score off the bench after Gerald Green left for Miami. Alex Len has been a disappointment since being the fifth pick in 2013 and will need to progress quickly if he wants to stay around much longer. He has the size and decent athleticism for a guy his size. Archie Goodwin played in 41 games and the athlete will need to expand his offensive game to find more minutes. T.J. Warren is one of my favorite young prospects for the variety of ways he can score, but he's going to have to show more on the defensive side if he wants to gain more minutes.
Rest of Las Vegas Summer League preview on page 4
Roster
The Rockets will have one entertaining team in Vegas. Clint Capela had some solid moments in the postseason but will need to show more consistency if the athletic big wants to continue gaining more minutes. Even though Patrick Beverley is back, Nick Johnson could be in the backup PG conversation with his athleticism. Sam Dekker, the 18th pick, can do a little bit of everything and will likely be backing up Trevor Ariza. Montrezl Harrell loves to dunk and can bring some excitement to the games. Christian Wood will look to prove his post-draft frustration was warranted after going undrafted.
Los Angeles Lakers
Roster
Will definitely make a run at one of the best teams in Vegas. Jordan Clarkson was named to the All-Rookie First Team, putting up 16, 5 and 4 in his 32 starts. He may even be overshadowed by another point guard in D'Angelo Russell. The second pick in the draft may be one of the best passing point guards to come out in awhile and will have a plethora of options to find in Vegas. Julius Randle's rookie campaign lasted all of 14 minutes due to a fractured tibia. With the extended rest, he should be fine and offers a unique set of athleticism for a guy his size and reportedly has been working on his 3-point shooting. Like his daddy before him, Larry Nance Jr. knows how to get up. The athlete will need to improve on the other aspects of his game with the Lakers possibly counting on him this year. To say Robert Upshaw's college career was bumpy would be an understatement. After getting dismissed from two colleges, Upshaw will look to show his massive size and surprising athleticism was worth the risk as he looks to backup new acquisition Roy Hibbert. Tarik Black will challenge him for those minutes with his imposing frame and knack for battling on the boards.
Miami Heat
See Orlando section
Milwaukee Bucks
Roster
Every spectator had their eyes set on the Bucks last year to see Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jabari Parker. Both are absent this go around but Bucks fans will be watching Rashad Vaughn. Considered as one of the top shooters in the 2015 draft, the 17th pick will be counted on to help Khris Middleton provide outside shooting and court spacing for the Bucks this year. Recent acquisitions may prohibit Johnny O'Bryant III from earning more minutes this coming season, but he has a nice post-up game and can attack the boards.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Roster
If people weren't watching the Bucks, they had their eyes set on Minnesota to see their recent first pick acquisition Andrew Wiggins and the high-flying Zach LaVine. Unfortunately, only LaVine returns from that duo but he can definitely put on a show as he will look to improve his point-guard abilities. Oh yeah, and there's that Karl Anthony-Towns guy as well. The 2015 first pick will be slotted in to start next to Nikola Pekovic and offers a much different look with his athleticism and shot-blocking ability than Pekovic. Most don't even remember Adreian Payne getting dealt to Minnesota, but Payne can be a solid backup power forward, but will need to heavily work on his shooting that teams once coveted. Tyus Jones came up big in the national title game, but he will have to show his game can translate at the next level. Brady Heslip made 113 threes in 20 D-League games. That's an average of nearly 6 a game for those that don't want to do the math. Others to watch include the high-flying Sam Thompson and the ball-handling Lorenzo Brown.
NBA D-League Select
Roster
I won't waste your time. 2009 second overall pick Hasheem Thabeet is the only thing really to watch. Maybe Taylor Griffin just because he's Blake's brother, but meh.
New Orleans Pelicans
Roster
Not much better than the D-League Select squad. Seth Curry can shoot the three like his family tree, shooting nearly 47% in 43 D-League games. Jarvis Varnado can block shots, but outside of that, this cupboard is pretty bare.
New York Knicks
Roster
Everyone will be watching for Kristaps Porzingis, but following a hip injury 5 minutes into his first Knicks practice, they may take it easy with him and limit his playing time in Vegas. Either way, the big man brings a game reminiscent of Dirk, but will have to show he can play defense at that level. The Knicks shipped Tim Hardaway Jr. away for Jerian Grant, so expectations may be a little high for the guy likely to start at point guard next season. Cleanthony Early played in 39 games and Langston Galloway played in 45 as both players will look to show they are worth more playing time. Early has an intriguing offensive game, while Galloway can shoot the ball. Yes, Thanasis Antetokounmpo is the brother of Giannis and is very athletic like Giannis but a lot more raw. Ricky Ledo is a personal favorite of mine and can score in a variety of ways.
Philadelphia 76ers
Roster
This squad will be a good bit different from the Utah Summer League team, but all of the focus will still be on 3rd pick Jahlil Okafor. He didn't seem too happy at the press conference knowing he may be behind Joel Embiid and Nerlens Noel (who would be here but is resting after playing a lot in 2014-15) in the starting lineup. Either way, the bigman is strong in his post moves and is a solid passer out of the post. JaKarr Sampson played in 74 games for the 76ers and the athletic forward will look to expand on his offensive repertoire. Pierre Jackson is a fun point guard to watch and will be looking for a main roster spot.
Phoenix Suns
Roster
The 13th pick Devin Booker knows how to shoot it and will be counted on to score off the bench after Gerald Green left for Miami. Alex Len has been a disappointment since being the fifth pick in 2013 and will need to progress quickly if he wants to stay around much longer. He has the size and decent athleticism for a guy his size. Archie Goodwin played in 41 games and the athlete will need to expand his offensive game to find more minutes. T.J. Warren is one of my favorite young prospects for the variety of ways he can score, but he's going to have to show more on the defensive side if he wants to gain more minutes.
Rest of Las Vegas Summer League preview on page 4
This post was edited on 7/9/15 at 8:02 pm
Posted on 7/3/15 at 10:49 pm to GeauxAggie972
Great post
Posted on 7/3/15 at 10:50 pm to 504Voodoo
why is Whiteside playing summer league? kinda perplexing
Posted on 7/3/15 at 10:58 pm to GeauxAggie972
quote:
ordan Adams can shoot the rock, but can he do enough to earn a spot on a team in need of outside shooting?
You mean likely Orlando Summer League MVP Jordan Adams?
Dropping 19 points on the Champs
He is a lock to be on the roster and could be a very important piece going forward.
It is very interesting summer league for the Grizzlies. There are 6 guys there that are currently on the roster and I only think they will keep 4 at the most. Jordan Adams and Jerell Martin are locks. Then you have Jamychal Green (Bama) vs. Jarnell Stokes(TENN) and Russ Smith (UofL) vs. Andrew Harrison (UK) for the last 2 spots. If I had to guess it will likely be Jamychal Green and Russ Smith.
Vince Carter actually practiced with them the first day they were down there which had to be really fricking cool for these guys
eta:
quote:
Miami Heat
The most entertaining team in Orlando
Russdiculous >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
This post was edited on 7/3/15 at 11:01 pm
Posted on 7/3/15 at 11:07 pm to GeauxAggie972
The only summer league I got really into was when Belinelli and Stuckey were tearing it up. I was convinced both were future all stars.
Posted on 7/3/15 at 11:07 pm to GeauxAggie972
I am a little bummed we won't get to a see a preview of Philly's Noel/Okafor frontcout.
That might be the Twolves if Wiggins and Lavine play along with Towns.
quote:
A preview of what may likely wind up being the most entertaining team in Las Vegas with four first-rounders
That might be the Twolves if Wiggins and Lavine play along with Towns.
Posted on 7/3/15 at 11:13 pm to Lester Earl
quote:
by Lester Earl
why is Whiteside playing summer league? kinda perplexing
Gotta think Riley and the coaching staff are trying to push him to get better and not get complacent with his recent success. If anything, I think it's more of a psychological move if anything. Don't think they want him to think of himself as a star just yet..so humble him and send him to the summer league to get some more work in
Posted on 7/3/15 at 11:13 pm to TheWalrus
I am an unabashed summer league lover. 
A lot of it is because I love the draft and CBB, so I really like getting a glimpse at the young guys. It is really the only time you will get see a lot of these guys until they are at least in to their 2nd or 3rd years in the league.
A lot of it is because I love the draft and CBB, so I really like getting a glimpse at the young guys. It is really the only time you will get see a lot of these guys until they are at least in to their 2nd or 3rd years in the league.
Posted on 7/3/15 at 11:14 pm to StrongSafety
Good move, IMO.
I like Whiteside's game. Can only improve.
I like Whiteside's game. Can only improve.
Posted on 7/3/15 at 11:19 pm to RTR America
quote:
I am an unabashed summer league lover. A lot of it is because I love the draft and CBB, so I really like getting a glimpse at the young guys. It is really the only time you will get see a lot of these guys until they are at least in to their 2nd or 3rd years in the league.
This defines me to a T.
I haven't looked at the Vegas rosters yet, but another part of the fun is seeing some of the weird names make it on these rosters, like Royce White for LAC
Posted on 7/3/15 at 11:21 pm to GeauxAggie972
Yeah I don't think some of them are posted yet (or at least Minnesota's isn't).
Posted on 7/3/15 at 11:47 pm to RTR America
SB Nation ?@SBNation 51m51 minutes ago
Spurs assistant Becky Hammon will become the NBA’s first female summer league team coach
Spurs assistant Becky Hammon will become the NBA’s first female summer league team coach
Posted on 7/4/15 at 12:44 am to GeauxAggie972
quote:
For you LSU fans, here's a unique one: Darnell Lazare
Wow. I just looked at his stats and he averaged more a game in NBADL in 3 or 4 straight season than he did ever at LSU.
Posted on 7/4/15 at 8:52 am to PokerChamp21
Myles Turner looks great
Making jump shots, contesting shots at the rim, crashing the boards. Looks really dumb running, but he's got game
Making jump shots, contesting shots at the rim, crashing the boards. Looks really dumb running, but he's got game
Posted on 7/4/15 at 9:49 am to MrWiseGuy
The GOAT Jr. - Russell - about to dominate
Posted on 7/4/15 at 9:55 am to theunknownknight
That's the Clippers buddy. Wrong LA team
Posted on 7/4/15 at 10:00 am to GeauxAggie972
quote:
Quincy Miller is always fun to watch in these games, but can he ever find a secure NBA home?
He will stick in Detroit for now...SVG says he has improved and Andre loves him for some reason. He has added some weight and I would be shocked if the Pistons don't hold on to him to see if he develops further as a stretch four. Spencer Dinwiddie is another one to watch...his continued development could solidify the backup PG position and potentially make Jennings expendable.
Posted on 7/4/15 at 10:21 am to GeauxAggie972
We start on the 10th. Our roster is
Tarik Black
Jabari Brown
Anthony Brown
Dwight Byucks
Jordan Clarkson
Will Davis
Tony Mitchell
Xavier Munford
Larry Nance Jr
Julius Randle
D'Angelo Russell
Robert Upshaw
Tarik Black
Jabari Brown
Anthony Brown
Dwight Byucks
Jordan Clarkson
Will Davis
Tony Mitchell
Xavier Munford
Larry Nance Jr
Julius Randle
D'Angelo Russell
Robert Upshaw
Page 1 of 10
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