With the Summer League kicking into gear this week, here are 10 Players to keep an eye out for. Summer League is a time where guys can show their skill-set, and hopefully gain that NBA contract before training camps begin.
10. Cedi Osman – Cleveland
Drafted by Minnesota in the 2015 draft, Osman saw some court time at the end of this past season with the Cavaliers. Expect him to be included in the summer league line-up alongside Collin Sexton. With LeBron out of the picture and Love on the trading block, the sky’s the limit for the 23-year old who can earn a more serious role moving forward.
Player Comparison: Mario Hezonja
9. Trae Young – Atlanta
The young guard from Oklahoma has a lot of pressure heading into the Summer League. His first two performances are just examples of nerves. Young has the potential to be a great player in this league and his ability to push the basketball is a strong quality we’ll see during Summer League. Being compared to a guy like Steph Curry and being labeled as one-dimensional, he needs to find his shot in multiple ways. I expect him to improve throughout. Keep an eye out for the shifty guard.
Player Comparison: Mike Bibby
8. Kostas Antetokounmpo – Dallas
Despite being the brother of Giannis, Kostas went last in this year’s draft, and the Mavs caught a steal with the guy from Dayton. Playing alongside Dennis Smith Jr and Luka Doncic, I have nothing but confidence that he’ll find a niche in Dallas.
Player Comparison: Giannis Antetokounmpo
7. Grayson Allen – Utah
Nothing flashy has happened from Allen’s end, but an 11, 7, and 8 game from night two has me convinced that he’s an all-around player capable of fitting in with a young Jazz team. Adding Allen to a lineup with Rudy Gobert, Donovan Mitchell, and Joe Ingles is dangerous. His point-forward mentality can benefit Utah in the long run. He’s no Hayward, but he’s shown knows how to get everyone on the floor involved thus far in Summer League.
Player Comparison: Gordon Hayward
6. Jordan Bell – Golden State
The most entertaining guy during that championship parade has made my list for many reasons. This past season he saw some time, but he climbed up the ladder when the postseason hit and play increased. The Summer League is the best thing that happened to him. He’ll have a chance to shine on this squad and develop into a more reliable role player for Golden State.
Player Comparison: Draymond Green
5. Marvin Bagley III – Sacremento
The number two pick has been playing great for the Kings summer squad. His game has been nothing that’ll blow you away, but it’s been enough to be efficient and impactful. His post-game is fun to watch, and he brings back a style of play I’ve been missing for years now. Big men have gotten a bad rap, but I hope Bagley can change that moving forward.
Player Comparison: Paul Millsap/Zach Randolph
4. Lonnie Walker IV – San Antonio
Besides his crazy hair, the kid has talent. He runs the floor better than most guys at his size, and he’s a perfect fit for Pops’ system. His defense will surprise most, but most sleep on that part of his game.
Player Comparison: Michael Finley
3. Derrick Jones Jr. – Miami
With another year in the Summer League, he’s shown promise and improvement from his play from last year. The high flying Jones has been nothing but aggressive this Summer League. I hope to see him as a projected starter come regular season.
Player Comparison: Terrence Ross
2. Jaren Jackson Jr. – Memphis
Probably the biggest steal on draft night is showing out in Memphis. Teams who passed on him are probably kicking themselves. One thing’s for sure: he can score the basketball and hit that mid-range jumper. Expect to see more intensity for the big fella.
Player Comparison: Luol Deng
1. DeAndre Ayton – Phoenix
The number one pick has yet to take the floor, but with his skill-set, the big man out of Arizona is must-watch TV. If he already has NBA players talking trash to him out the gate then this kid must be able to hoop. Make sure you keep note of when the Suns play in the next few days.
Player Comparison: Joel Embiid
It’s the best time of the year!