Paolo Banchero, Chet Holmgren and more: 5 players to keep an eye on during the 2022 Summer League
The NBA Summer League has started, with fans eager to get their first look at the incoming slate of rookies. After months of debating where players would be selected in the draft, fans finally know who will be suiting up for which clubs.
There's sure to be plenty of talent on display in the upcoming weeks. After the California Classic and Salt Lake City Summer League, the rest of the NBA will head to Las Vegas to take part in the Summer League.
Here's a look at five players to keep an eye on.
#5: Keegan Murray
At the California Classic, it didn't take long for Kings rookie Keegan Murray to become the talk of the basketball world. Murray, the fourth pick in the draft, is viewed as a player who could contribute early for the Kings this year.
Keegan Murray was hooping tonight 🔥
24 PTS
7 REB
3 STL https://t.co/gfMoHgV4mH
So far, it's been an eye-opening display of production from Murray. The Iowa forward has showcased his ability to take over a game with his outside shooting and defensive ability. Murray will look to keep up his impressive play against tougher opponents in Las Vegas.
#4: Jaden Ivey
One of college basketball's most electrifying players last year, Purdue guard Jaden Ivey has the potential to be a star alongside Cade Cunningham.
"I'm a Piston bro!" -@IveyJaden
Let's go Under the Hood to see behind the scenes from this past month with @realgranthill33's book signing in Detroit to the #NBADraft war room with Troy Weaver and the front office staff.
All episodes: bit.ly/3aljSvJ https://t.co/UhxxDcBLQr
Ivey has drawn comparisons to Memphis Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant, due to his elite speed and athleticism. With his desire to play above the rim for high-flying dunks, he could be a fan favorite in the Summer League.
#3: Jabari Smith Jr.
The Houston Rockets had an impressive haul, showcased by former Auburn freshman Jabari Smith Jr., in last month's draft. One of the most impressive players in college basketball last year, Smith will be one of the Summer League's top attractions.
The call that did it all 📞 https://t.co/b2yHBPtXwq
At 6-foot-10 with the ability to light it up from well-beyond 3-point range, Smith has the tools and upside to become a future superstar. During his only year at Auburn, Smith averaged 16.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 42.9%, including 42.0% from 3-point range.
#2: Chet Holmgren
OKC Thunder draft pick Chet Holmgren, selected second, put forth a jaw-dropping performance in his Summer League debut.
Chet Holmgren’s Summer League debut 🔥
23 Points
7/9 Shooting
7 Rebounds
6 Blocks
4 Assists
4 Threes
23 Minutes
https://t.co/1vXjTNissO
In his first game in the Salt Lake City Summer League, Holmgren had 23 points, seven rebounds, four assists and six blocks. After one more game in the Salt Lake City, Holmgren will head to Las Vegas, where he will be one of the top players for fans to watch.
#1: Paolo Banchero
After being selected first in the draft, Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero will draw plenty of excitement. One of college basketball's most versatile offensive threats last year, Banchero could be a serious candidate for the Rookie of the Year award.
reality dreams âž¡ reality
@Pp_doesit https://t.co/J0VwQfpuT9
Banchero has the ability to light up the scoring column in a hurry and has showcased the potential to be a dynamic playmaking threat as well. He will have no shortage of spectators who are eager to see what the talented forward can do in Las Vegas.