Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards, had what can only be described as a nightmarish performance at the Las Vegas Summer League on Tuesday. In a game against the Portland Trail Blazers, the 7-foot center went 0-for-15 from the field, marking the worst shooting display at the Summer League since 2017.
Sarr’s struggles were not for lack of trying. His attempts came across the board, with an emphasis on perimeter shots, including seven from beyond the arc. Despite the poor shooting performance, Sarr did show some versatility in his arsenal, attempting runners and floaters when he made his way into the paint. Unfortunately, his efforts were stymied by the Trail Blazers’ defense, notably when Donovan Clingan, the former UConn standout and No. 7 pick, blocked one of Sarr’s moves to the rim.
Performance Metrics and Rebound Efforts
Despite his dismal shooting, Sarr made contributions in other areas. He pulled down nine rebounds, dished out three assists, and recorded three blocks. Over three games at the Summer League, Sarr has scored a total of 20 points on 8-of-41 shooting from the field and has made just 2-of-17 attempts from three-point range.
Given his draft position and the pre-draft hype, these performances have stirred concerns among fans and analysts alike. Sarr, touted as an exceptionally mobile 7-footer who can play on the perimeter, seems to be struggling with his shot consistency and physicality on the floor.
Fan Expectations and Expert Opinions
Initially, Sarr's selection generated considerable excitement among Wizards’ fans, who viewed him as a potential cornerstone for the franchise. However, the current sentiment has shifted, with many now voicing concerns about his ability to perform at the highest level. "This is what Sarr wanted. He wanted to be with the Wizards, and the Wizards wanted him," shared an unnamed source. “Many thought he was the best prospect in this draft because he's an exceptionally mobile 7-footer who can play on the perimeter. But the worry is his lack of physicality. He's going to need to put on 20-plus pounds of muscle to do what he wants on the floor. And I also don't fully trust the shooting from 3, which will be a key skill for him to hit on.”
Future Prospects and Development Needs
Sarr’s journey with the Wizards is still in its early stages, and there’s a general consensus that his game needs substantial development. The Wizards' coaching staff and development team have their work cut out for them. Enhancing Sarr's physicality and shooting ability, particularly from the three-point range, now appears critical.
The concerns are not unfounded. The NBA is a physically demanding league, and Sarr, despite his mobility and potential, will need to add more muscle to his frame to withstand the rigors of professional play. The Wizards’ investment in him means that he will have ample resources at his disposal to develop his game. The pressure now is on for him to make the necessary adjustments to justify his high draft selection.
The coming months will be pivotal for Sarr as he works to address these weaknesses. While the initial signs might be worrying, it is essential to remember that many players have struggled in their early days but went on to have illustrious careers. Wizards fans are holding onto hope that Sarr can turn things around and become a formidable two-way player.
Although Sarr's Summer League performance has raised eyebrows, it also serves as a crucial wake-up call for both the player and the franchise. It sets the stage for what promises to be a challenging but potentially rewarding development pathway for a young talent with undeniable potential.