The 2024 NBA Summer League is officially over after the Miami Heat emerged as the champions of the 11-day event on Monday in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The league had its first opportunity to watch the rookie class in action. Unfortunately, several draft picks, including Stephon Castle (wrist), Zach Edey (ankle), Devin Carter (shoulder) and DaRon Holmes II (Achilles), were either limited or unable to play due to various injuries.
While some couldn’t take the court, several players still turned in dazzling performances in the desert. The top first-year performers included several lottery picks, while others drafted further down the board also impressed during their time on the court.
Rookie Wire took a look at the best performances from the incoming rookie class. The list only includes players who appeared in at least three games in Las Vegas.
Chris Day/The Commercial Appeal
Wells helped the Grizzlies to the summer league championship on Monday. He averaged 14.2 points, 2.2 rebounds, one assist and one steal on 40.7% shooting from 3-point range in six appearances. He produced his best game on July 21 with 28 points, which was tied for the second-highest output in a game by a rookie. Though this list was based on games played in Las Vegas, Wells did have a 27-point performance and sank the game-winning shot in Salt Lake City on July 9. The 39th pick played at a high level and was one of the top rookies, as a result.
Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Holland finished third in scoring among rookies, averaging 18.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.5 steals in four games with the Pistons. He was inefficient at times, but the fifth pick still flashed his athleticism, finishing ability and shooting in spurts. He also had some nice defensive sequences that should energize fans.
Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
Buzelis had a strong debut with the Bulls, averaging 16.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, two steals and two blocks in five games. The 11th pick exploded for 28 points on July 14, tied for the second-highest output in a game by a rookie this year. He displayed his array of offensive moves, threw down some emphatic dunks and was electric at times in transition. In other words: He was a ton of fun to watch.
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at The Rookie Wire…