NBA Summer League 2024, The NBA Summer League is basketball’s most exciting preview of future superstars, and the 2024 edition in Las Vegas promises fireworks. As teams debut their newest draft picks and hidden gems fight for roster spots, all eyes will be on which players emerge as the next breakout talents.
This 1,500+ word guide gives you everything you need to know:
✔ Can’t-miss top-5 draft picks making their pro debuts
✔ Under-the-radar second-rounders poised to shock scouts
✔ Sophomore players with everything to prove
✔ International prospects ready for the spotlight
✔ Expert predictions for Summer League MVP
Headliners: The 2024 Lottery Picks You Must Watch
1. Zaccharie Risacher (Hawks – #1 Pick)
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What to expect: Immediate three-and-D impact
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Key stat to watch: 3PT% against NBA-length closeouts
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Hawks’ plan: Test him as primary wing stopper
2. Alex Sarr (Wizards – #2 Pick)
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What to expect: Highlight-reel blocks and transition dunks
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Key stat to watch: Defensive rating in switch situations
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Wizards’ plan: Experiment with small-ball center minutes
3. Reed Sheppard (Rockets – #3 Pick)
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What to expect: Elite shooting and sneaky-good passing
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Key stat to watch: Assist-to-turnover ratio
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Rockets’ plan: Run him as secondary playmaker
“Sheppard could be this year’s Summer League MVP favorite – his game translates perfectly to this environment.” – NBA NewsZ scout
4. Stephon Castle (Spurs – #4 Pick)
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What to expect: Physical defense and bully-ball drives
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Key stat to watch: Free throw attempts per game
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Spurs’ plan: Develop his PG skills alongside Wembanyama
5. Matas Buzelis (Bulls – #11 Pick)
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What to expect: Versatile forward play with flair
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Key stat to watch: Defensive versatility (guarding 2-4)
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Bulls’ plan: Showcase his playmaking at point forward
Second-Round Steals Ready to Shine
1. Bronny James (Lakers – #55 Pick)
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Why he matters: The LeBron factor and defensive potential
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Key question: Can he shoot well enough to earn rotation minutes?
2. Cam Christie (Clippers – #46 Pick)
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Why he matters: Best pure shooter in second round (42% 3PT in college)
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Key question: Will his slight frame hold up defensively?
3. Kevin McCullar Jr. (Knicks – #52 Pick)
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Why he matters: Elite defender who fits Thibodeau’s system
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Key question: Can he develop a reliable corner three?
Sophomore Players With Everything to Prove
NBA Summer League 2024, These 2023 draftees need strong showings:
✅ Sidy Cissoko (Spurs): Must show improved shooting
✅ GG Jackson (Grizzlies): Last year’s SL star needs consistency
✅ Rayan Rupert (Trail Blazers): Time to deliver on defensive hype
International Wild Cards
Keep an eye on:
Juan Núñez (Bulls): Spanish League’s best passer
Baba Miller (Spurs): Finally eligible after NCAA issues
Izan Almansa (Warriors): FIBA standout getting NBA look
Summer League Schedule Highlights
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July 12-22: Las Vegas Summer League
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Must-watch games:
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Hawks vs. Wizards (July 13): Risacher vs. Sarr
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Rockets vs. Spurs (July 15): Sheppard vs. Castle
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Lakers vs. Warriors (July 18): Bronny’s biggest test
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Expert MVP Predictions
| Analyst | Pick | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| NBA NewsZ | Reed Sheppard | “Perfect combo of stats and winning plays” |
| ESPN | Matas Buzelis | “Will stuff stat sheets for Bulls” |
| The Athletic | Alex Sarr | “Defensive plays will go viral” |
How to Evaluate Summer League Performance
Remember:
✔ Don’t overreact to stats – focus on translatable skills
✔ Body language matters – who plays winning basketball?
✔ Teams are testing schemes – not always playing to win
“The smartest fans watch for one or two specific skills each player is working on, not just box scores.” – NBA Development Coach
Read More: NBA Players Working Out Together: Offseason Training Camps You Should Know
Final Thoughts: Why 2024 Summer League Matters More Than Ever
NBA Summer League 2024, With the NBA’s new second apron rules making cheap talent crucial, teams will be scouting every possession for hidden rotation players. For fans, it’s our first look at future All-Stars – past Summer League MVPs include Damian Lillard, Donovan Mitchell, and Lonzo Ball.
Bookmark this page and follow NBA NewsZ for daily updates from Las Vegas!
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