The annual NBA Summer League is a spectacle designed to spotlight the league’s newest draftees. Media, fans, and scouts converge, eager to gauge the potential of future stars. Yet, beneath this expected rookie fanfare, a more nuanced and often equally impactful narrative quietly unfolds: the subtle, yet significant, evolution of the league`s returning, non-rookie talents. This year, the courts in Las Vegas and Salt Lake City were not merely proving grounds for fresh faces; they served as a vital stage for a select group of developing players to signal their readiness for a substantial leap. While a healthy dose of skepticism is always warranted for Summer League heroics, the sheer progress displayed by some veterans of a season or two strongly suggests that genuine breakouts might indeed be closer than anticipated.
Beyond the Draft Hype: The Ascent of Developing Talent
For players beyond their initial rookie season, the Summer League offers a critical opportunity. It`s a chance to demonstrate rigorous off-season improvements, refine specific skills, and unequivocally prove to front offices that they merit increased responsibilities or even secure a coveted rotation spot. This past summer, several individuals not only met these high expectations but emphatically exceeded them, showcasing a maturity and refined skill set that belied their relatively limited NBA exposure. These are the players who, having navigated the initial turbulence of professional basketball, now appear to be truly finding their footing.
Sharpening the Arrows: The Crucial Evolution of Perimeter Shooting
Perhaps the most prevalent and impactful improvement observed among these emerging talents was a noticeable refinement in their shooting touch, particularly from beyond the arc. The modern NBA`s relentless demand for spacing means that proficiency from deep can fundamentally transform a player`s utility and role. Kyle Filipowski, the Utah Jazz`s astute second-round pick from a year ago, perfectly exemplified this trend. Having steadily improved his three-point percentage since his college days, he showed further significant gains this summer, accompanied by visible mechanical refinements in his footwork and a more compact release. While his defensive versatility remains a continuous project, his burgeoning offensive arsenal now positions him as an undeniable, multi-level threat.
A similar narrative unfolded for Ron Holland II of the Detroit Pistons. An athletic wing whose shooting has historically been his most glaring deficiency, Holland delivered a pleasant surprise. His remarkable 7-for-15 performance from three-point range during Summer League was arguably more significant than his overall scoring volume. For a Detroit offense perpetually seeking improved spacing, Holland`s demonstrated commitment to enhancing his jumper could unlock substantial minutes and provide much-needed support for core players like Cade Cunningham. Likewise, Milwaukee`s Chris Livingston, despite being briefly waived prior to Summer League, returned with a newfound confidence in his shooting, converting 8 of 21 threes after a meager 1-for-13 in his first 42 NBA games. His willingness to take — and, critically, make — these shots signals a pivotal step in his development as a versatile, two-way wing.
Beyond Isolated Scores: Expanding Playmaking and Defensive Acumen
While individual scoring often garners the most immediate attention, true breakout potential often lies in a player`s capacity to impact the game in multifaceted ways beyond putting the ball through the hoop. Terrence Shannon Jr. of the Minnesota Timberwolves, a physically imposing guard known for his scoring instincts, demonstrated a clear and encouraging progression in his broader guard skills. Beyond his established ability to “get a bucket,” Shannon showcased improved decision-making, delivering precise lobs, executing quick kick-outs to open shooters, and exhibiting an increased capacity as a secondary playmaker. This development is particularly timely for Minnesota, facing a void left by a free-agency departure and with an aging veteran point guard. Shannon`s demonstrated ability to contribute beyond isolated scoring instances positions him perfectly for a larger, more comprehensive role.
Even Ron Holland II, while noted for his shooting, also displayed flashes of advanced defensive playmaking. Despite occasional, understandable lapses in timing and positioning typical of developing players, his impressive tally of 13 “stocks” (steals plus blocks) in just three games hinted at a disruptive defensive potential that, if consistently refined, could make him a formidable two-way presence for Detroit.
The Resilient Returnees: Overcoming Setbacks and Seizing Second Chances
For some players, the Summer League served as a grand stage for a much-anticipated comeback. DaRon Holmes II of the Denver Nuggets, last year`s first-round pick, notably missed his entire rookie season due to an Achilles injury sustained at this very Summer League. His return this year was nothing short of impressive: fully healthy, remarkably productive, and progressively better with each game, culminating in a dominant 19-point, 17-rebound, 5-assist performance against the Clippers. Holmes offers Denver a unique and crucial frontcourt asset, capable of playing both power forward and center, now with validated shooting gains and intriguing flashes of ball-handling skills. His robust performance significantly bolsters Denver`s already formidable depth, providing a versatile big man option they previously lacked.
Similarly, Darius Bazley, a former first-round pick who spent the last year playing professionally in China, utilized the Summer League to mount a compelling case for an NBA return. Representing the Lakers, Bazley showcased the undeniable athleticism, length, and positional versatility that initially made him a sought-after prospect. While an unfortunate injury curtailed his impressive run, it occurred only after he had forcibly reminded the league of his distinct capabilities.
The Quiet Contenders: Under-the-Radar Names Making Significant Noise
Beyond the primary spotlights, several other players quietly, yet effectively, cemented their place in future NBA conversations. Drew Timme, the former Gonzaga star, despite lingering questions about his defensive fit in the league, looked like a genuinely viable NBA player for the Nets. He consistently showcased the sheer productivity he had displayed in limited action late last season. David Jones-Garcia, a G-League standout who reportedly turned down a substantial multi-year European contract, averaged 21 points on an impressive 50% three-point shooting for the Spurs, effectively playing his way into an imminent NBA future. And Mark Armstrong, a Sixers` prospect, made a strong, logical case for a vacant two-way contract with his noticeably improved all-around game and refined tools.
Ultimately, while the NBA Summer League will always command attention as the primary launchpad for rookies, its true strategic value often lies in observing the growth trajectory and nuanced development of players who have already tasted the league`s demands. This year’s edition provided compelling, tangible evidence that several non-rookies are not just developing; they appear poised to transition from promising prospects to essential, impactful contributors. Their demonstrable improvements in critical facets such as shooting, expanded playmaking, and defensive consistency suggest that the upcoming NBA season might just feature a new, exciting cohort of “breakout” stars, proving that sometimes, the most significant and compelling developments emerge from those who have been diligently honing their craft just outside the brightest lights.
Jasper Hawthorne