The rookies were back in action last night as more NBA summer league games occurred. However, fewer headliners were on the court during the second day of the California Classic.
NBA Summer League Rookie Recaps: Day Two of the California Classic
Load management has become a part of the NBA summer league, as the San Antonio Spurs and Los Angeles Lakers both opted to rest Stephon Castle and Bronny James, respectively.
It was also announced that Sacramento Kings lottery pick Devin Carter will miss the entire NBA summer league after undergoing shoulder surgery. Neither of the Charlotte Hornets’ picks played again, and likely won’t see Tidjane Salaun until the Las Vegas Summer League.
First Round Picks
Kel’el Ware, Heat (15th Overall Pick)
Kel’el Ware had a dominant second NBA summer league game, finishing with 26 points and 11 rebounds. Much of his scoring came against the Sacramento Kings’ smaller players, as the Kings employed a switch-everything defensive strategy. Ware’s ability to exploit these mismatches showcased his potential as a significant offensive threat. Nobody expects him to match up well with Steven Adams, Brook Lopez, or Jusuf Nurkic types in the league, but if he can punish smaller defenders, teams will be less likely to implore switching as a defensive tactic.
Dalton Knecht, Lakers (17th Overall Pick)
Dalton Knecht‘s shooting woes during the NBA summer league continued as he went 3/13 from the field, but he finally made his first three-pointer as an NBA player. Given the Lakers’ lack of talent in the Summer League, Knecht faces stingier defenses than he would while sharing the floor with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Despite his struggles, Knecht’s persistence and defensive potential remain areas of interest for the Lakers. One thing to track is how many of his looks come from behind the arc. Currently, of his 21 attempts, only six have come from downtown.
Second Round Picks
Pelle Larsson, Heat (44th Overall Pick)
Pelle Larsson refined his shot selection but still got off nine attempts, finishing with nine points in 18 minutes. His all-around contributions were more evident this time, as he added five rebounds and six assists while keeping his fouls in check, ending with just two. Larson’s improved performance in the NBA summer league is a positive sign for his development. If he continues to show Jack-of-all-trades ability, he could become the latest late-round or undrafted player to make an impact with Miami.
Harrison Ingram, Spurs (48th Overall Pick)
Harrison Ingram had a better day, scoring 11 points on 5/13 shooting. Although he hasn’t showcased his knockdown perimeter game at the NBA summer league yet, Ingram isn’t shy about getting his attempts up. His improved offensive output and rebounding prowess indicate he is finding his footing in the NBA. Ingram was less active on the glass, only corralling four total in his second game.
The Last Word
The California Classic takes a brief break today, but the Salt Lake City Summer League starts tonight, featuring the Oklahoma City Thunder, Philadelphia 76ers, Memphis Grizzlies, and Utah Jazz. We could potentially see the NBA summer league debut of Zach Edey tonight. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the NBA summer league action continues.
