NBA Summer League in Las Vegas not only serves as a platform for rookies and second-year players to showcase their skills, but it also presents a golden opportunity for fringe players to prove themselves deserving of a spot on an NBA roster. While the games may not hold a significant bearing, the stakes are high for those aspiring to make it in the league. We will highlight five standout players who have made a compelling case for a coveted roster spot after their stellar performances in the Las Vegas Summer League.
1. Javon Freeman-Liberty, G, Chicago Bulls:
Javon Freeman-Liberty, an undrafted guard, emerged as one of the top players in the Summer League. With a strong run in Las Vegas, he averaged 21.2 points, 4.4 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game while shooting impressively from the floor and behind the arc. Known for his defensive skills and improvement in offensive performance, Freeman-Liberty deserves consideration for a spot on the Chicago Bulls’ roster.
2. Jared Butler, G, Oklahoma City Thunder:
Despite concerns about his size, Jared Butler’s skills as a point guard remain evident. A deadly outside shooter, Butler showcased his shooting ability by hitting 44.2 percent of his three-point attempts in the Summer League. His sharp passing and defensive tenacity make him a valuable addition to any team lacking pull-up shooting. While he faces competition within the talented young core of the Thunder, Butler’s talent is undeniable.
3. Orlando Robinson, C, Miami Heat:
Orlando Robinson, an undrafted free agent from Fresno State, proved to be the best player on the court during the Summer League. The Miami Heat showed faith in him by signing him to a two-year, $3.9 million deal with a partial guarantee. Robinson’s impressive performance included averaging 25.8 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.5 steals in four games. With his physicality, skills, and versatility, Robinson has demonstrated that he deserves a chance to play at the NBA level.
4. Max Christie, G, Los Angeles Lakers:
Max Christie, a second-round pick from Michigan State, capitalized on his Summer League opportunity to prove his worth. A 6’6 off-guard, Christie displayed confidence and accuracy from the three-point line, shooting an impressive 55 percent from beyond the arc. While he excels as an off-ball shooter and defender, Christie also showcased flashes of one-on-one scoring ability. As he continues to develop his game, Christie may find a place in the Lakers’ rotation.
5. Jaden Springer, G, Philadelphia 76ers:
Jaden Springer, the No. 28 pick in the 2021 draft, showcased his dominance both defensively and offensively in the Summer League. As a big, strong guard with exceptional defensive playmaking abilities, Springer averaged 22.3 points on 62.8 percent true shooting across six games. While his offensive skills continue to develop, Springer’s defensive prowess and upside as a creator make him a valuable asset for any team.
As the Las Vegas Summer League concludes, the performances of these six standout players have proven their worthiness for spots on NBA rosters. They have showcased their skills, talents, and potential for growth, making a strong case for teams to invest in their development. While the final decisions ultimately lie in the hands of the teams, it would indeed be a mistake to overlook these players who have proven themselves on the grand stage of the Summer League.
The post “5 NBA Summer League Standouts Who Deserve a Roster Spot” first appeared on the European News Global.
