Thursday, July 20, 2017

THE 2017 NBA Summer League Report

I understand those who scoff at Summer League. From a basketball standpoint, a larger percentage of what happens in Vegas, is moot, versus the percentage that matters. I get it.

However, that's not how we get down. Our space in the web-a-verse is for the hardcores that KNOW fractions matter. A small glimmer of golden information can be the advantage that separates winning from losing.

So, as we do annually, we have dissected what we observed and audited the numbers compiled so we can be "data informed" as Len Elmore would say. We go deeper than the highlights of what the most popular players did, and no, we don't care about what brand of sneakers anybody was wearing.

So let's get to it. Who were the best of the best players in Las Vegas? 


Our Hoop Obsession All NBA Las Vegas Summer League Teams


  • First Team: Lonzo Ball, Lakers. Dennis Smith Jr., Dallas. Kyle Kuzma, Lakers. John Collins, Atlanta. Caleb Swanigan, Portland. 
  • Second Team: Chris Johnson, Houston. Wayne Selden, Memphis. Troy Williams, Houston. Jarnell Stokes, Portland. Matt Costello, Minnesota. 
  • Third Team: Yogi Ferrell, Dallas. Mike James, Phoenix. DeAndre Bembry, Atlanta. Vince Hunter, Memphis. Deyonta Davis, Memphis. 

How did the lottery picks that played in Las Vegas fare? 


Markelle Fultz, the first pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, only played 15 minutes before leaving with a sprained ankle. Philadelphia decided to rest Fultz for the remainder of the Summer League. 

Lonzo Ball was terrific! He displayed all the tools that excite us about his game. He routinely passed ahead and hit open jump shooters on time and on target. Ball posted a 2.43-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio, and showed the defensive instincts that will make him a dangerous ball-hawk in the NBA. He struggled with his deep shooting (23.8% 3-pt fg.) but the rest of his game was so special it was easy to overlook his shortcomings as a shooter. Ball strengthened our belief that he should have been the first player taken in the NBA Draft. Time, of course, will tell. 

Jayson Tatum (pictured) was better in the Utah Summer League than he was in Las Vegas. He was good in Vegas but probably not nearly as good as the mainstream media outlets made him out to be (he shot 42% FG in LV). Tatum showed he can score and defend his position. His rebounding ability, in particular, was nice to witness. He will need to be a better decision maker. He was guilty of not sharing the ball enough (for our taste).  

Josh Jackson, the fourth pick in the NBA Draft, by the Phoenix Suns, struggled with his deep shooting (18.8% 3-pt. fg) but did an excellent job on the boards due to his outstanding athleticism. 

De'Aaron Fox played 85 minutes, showing his trademark speed. He also struggled mightily with his perimeter shooting, connecting on just one his eight three-point attempts. He shot 63% from the free throw line. His performance in Las Vegas was curtailed by a minor injury. 

Lauri Markkanen didn't shoot the ball well but he did show me more defensive ability than I previously believed he possessed. He is known as a shooter, so it was perhaps just a fluke in a small sample size that led him to make just 12 of 41 field goal attempts (29.3% FG). Markakanen's touch was on full display at the free throw line where he connected on 92.3% of his attempts. 

Dennis Smith Jr. (pictured) was among the best young, talented players in the showcase. The Dallas Mavericks first round choice from North Carolina State showed an ability to break down defenses off the dribble. Smith looked more like a two-guard than a point guard (in a small sample size). Defensively, we thought Smith was very good. 

Zach Collins played just 70 minutes and honestly did not look good. While he was okay defensively, he was just shy of terrible on offense (26% FG, two assists, nine turnovers). 

Donovan Mitchell played only 66 minutes in Vegas after a starring role in the Utah Summer League just days prior. Mitchell looked every bit like a two-way, top-tier guard. He impressed us to say the least. 

Bam Adebayo (pictured) was very good in Vegas. He was great in the Orlando Summer League. Adebayo showed that he has better touch than was previously believed. His nose for the ball was on display but his ability to make free throws was a nice surprise (21 of 25 (84% FT). 

Pertinent stats and per-minute leaders

Now for some real stat-geek stuff... Here are the top-five (among those who played 80 minutes minimum) in per-minute categories:
  • Points per minute: 1. Bryn Forbes, San Antonio .897, 2. Troy Williams, Houston .818, 3. Wayne Selden, Memphis .742, 4. Quinn Cook, New Orleans .691, 5. Kyle Kuzma, Lakers .683.
  • Assist-to-turnover ratio: 1. Monte Morris, Denver 4.33-to-1, 2. Trey McKinney-Jones, Miami 3.5-to-1, 3. Royce O'Neale, New Orleans 3.5-to-1, 4. Jawun Evans, Clippers 3-to-1, 5. Isaiah Taylor, Houston 2.84-to-1. 
  • Rebounds per minute: 1. Matt Costello, Minnesota .466, 2. Jordan Bell, Golden State .417, 3. John Collins, Atlanta .398, 4. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Brooklyn .391, 5. Jack Cooley, Sacramento .371. 
  • Blocked shots per minute: 1. Edy Tavares, Cleveland .139, 2. Jordan Bell, Golden State .120, 3. Eric Griffin, Utah .118, 4. A.J. Hammons, Miami .086, 5. Daniel Ochefu, Washington .084. 
  • Efficiency per minute: 1. Jamil Wilson, Clippers .941, 2. Matt Costello, Minnesota .932, 3. John Collins .885, 4. Jack Cooley, Sacramento .766, 5. Cheick Diallo .763. 

Summer Growth

NBA Summer League continued to grow in 2017. The first weekend actually sold out of tickets in Las Vegas! The mass media influence should NEVER be underestimated, and the NBA was smart to align with ESPN on a deal that has the ability to invade the brains of those in an estimated 88 million households, not to mention every sports bar in the United States. The WatchESPN app reaches upwards of 40 million people at last check. So, yes, NBA Summer League is still growing and the hype reached a new apex this time around.
The set-up remains beautiful for a hoop obsessed fan. One ticket purchase ($30 for an adult) allows the fan to see the entire slate of games between the Thomas and Mack Center, and the Cox Pavilion. As many as eight games were played on some (but not all) of the eleven days of the League. Once inside the arena, you never have to go outside in the Vegas heat because the two venues are connected.

The NBA does a really good job of providing activities for the kids who are in attendance. They can test their maximum vertical leap, have their picture taken, and gather autographs from the young stars.

Despite the initial push on opening weekend, it should be noted that by day six of the League, seats were much easier to come by. Perhaps due to day six falling on a Wednesday or due to many teams "shutting down" their most promising prospects after even the smallest of agitation to an ankle or cramp to the calf. 

In the past the only place to wager on NBA Summer League games in Las Vegas was at the Westgate Super Book or one of the Station casinos off the Strip. This summer, you could add the Caesar's properties (Caesar's Palace, Harrah's, Paris, Planet Hollywood, Rio) as prime locations to place a bet. 


Perspective changes and affirmations

One of our favorite aspects of having another chance to observe prospects in a live setting is to be honest with ourselves about players we see improving. Just because we previously rated a player a certain way does not mean that they cannot gain traction in our mind. Here are our thoughts on a handful of players that came more clearly into focus... 

John Collins somehow slipped to the 20th pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. For the record, we rated him eighth. Collins did nothing to dampen our enthusiasm for his potential. The 19 year-old was dominant at times. 
Sir Dominic Pointer is now simply being called "Dom". He stood out as a prospect that reaffirmed our belief in his ability to impact the game. He has more energy than 99% of the players on the floor at any given time. Heck, Pointer has more energy than 99% of the KIDS running around any given playground. While he is not a prolific jump shooter, we steadfastly maintain that Pointer brings enough to the table in his overall game to overlook the fact that he is not a consistent three-point threat. Pointer made one of his three deep-ball attempts in Las Vegas. He posted a 1.66-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio, had the best Defensive Rating of any player in the league that played over 80 minutes, and he ranked eighth overall in Las Vegas Summer League efficiency per-minute. Pointer was the 53rd pick in the NBA Draft in 2015. The Cavs still hold his rights. 
Jamil Wilson (6'7", 230 lbs, age 26) played so well for the Clippers in Las Vegas they signed him to a two-way contract. We previously viewed Wilson as a wing prospect that was "close" to being an NBA player. Our view now is that Wilson is unquestionably ready. Wilson made 10 of his 16 three-point attempts and continued to show a desire to play defense with the honest effort he has always provided. The former Marquette "glue guy" played in Italy last season. He was undrafted in 2014. 

Kyle Kuzma was so much better than what my perception of his abilities were that I was embarrassed to call myself an "obsessive" scout. It is NEVER easy for me to deal with the reality that I was so wrong about a player. Although I am starting to realize that one of the many benefits of intently watching Summer League games is to be able to "check yourself". Suffice it to say, I am now fully aware of Kuzma's skills. 

I continue to have faith that Vince Hunter will find his way to the NBA. Hunter reaffirmed that he can fit in due to his athletic prowess and improving skill as a perimeter shooter. ...Cheick Diallo was among the more impressive BIGs playing in Las Vegas. He left me believing he can be the third wheel in the New Orleans rotation of pivots. ...Markel Brown barely played for Portland but he earned an uptick in our mind with his outstanding power-guard game. ...Eric Griffin, who we have campaigned for for many years, was signed by the Utah Jazz following Summer League. He is an explosive leaper that can rim-protect and bring energy to a team off the bench. ...I never considered Matt Thomas as a prospect but the way he shot the three-ball for the Lakers raised my eyebrows enough to now think maybe he CAN make it someday. The undrafted Iowa State guard was automatic (17-28, 60.7% 3-pt.). 

Going the other direction, I was disappointed in the play of Bryce Cotton, Denzel Valentine, and Cameron Payne. All three players were previously guards we would mention as possible NBA rotation guys. They were sketchy enough in Vegas that our perception of their abilities changed. Valentine looked a step slow in every area. Payne displayed virtually zero ability to lead a team, instead just jacking bad shot after bad shot. ...We felt terrible for Jordan Adams who battled back from injuries to lace up his sneakers in Las Vegas this summer. Unfortunately, he looked like a guy that aged fifteen years. His hands were still quick but his wheels could barely lift off the floor. ...Kobi Simmons who left Arizona after his freshman year only to go undrafted in June, struggled in Vegas as much as he did as a Wildcat. He reaffirmed that he is a "freak" athlete but his basketball feel is a "work in progress". 


Our Hoop Obsession Las Vegas Summer League All-Defensive Teams ...

First Team - Kay Felder, Cleveland. Sir Dominic Pointer, Cleveland. Eric Griffin, Utah. Matt Costello, Minnesota. Jordan Bell, Golden State

Second Team - Demetrius Jackson, Boston. Casey Prather, Cleveland. DeAndre Bembry, Atlanta. Anthony Gill, Cleveland. Edy Tavares, Cleveland. 

Small sample ballers

Some players played really well but they didn't play a high volume of minutes. Standouts in that category included: Ante Zizic, Boston. Kennedy Meeks, Toronto, Gary Payton II, Milwaukee. Brandon Paul, Cleveland. Milton Doyle, Brooklyn. Chris Walker, Chicago. 

Meeks was signed by the Raptors after his strong performance. Brandon Paul earned the ultimate nod of respect by being courted by and signing with the San Antonio Spurs. Ante Zizic is expected to play in the NBA in 2017-18. Do not be surprised if he plays a major role in the Celtics plans. He is a seven-footer that will help give the C's some paint presence. ...Payton is property of the Bucks. We believe he is capable of playing rotation minutes in the NBA. ...Doyle is a 23 year-old guard from Loyola (Chicago). We thought he played well enough this Summer to at least earn an invite to NBA Training Camp for one of the 30 teams. ...Walker is still just 22 years-old. He is a veteran of the G-League and we think that he remains as one of the most interesting prospects not under contract to any NBA team. 


Time to move on...

Annually, we list players that we feel just do not meet NBA standards. We do this not to be "mean" but to be credible as a critic. Any evaluation where the evaluator likes everything is not an evaluation, it is cheer-leading.  In no way do we want to discourage players from chasing their hoop dreams. But as someone looking to find a job consulting in professional basketball personnel, we feel obligated to comment on players we would be "moving on" from at this point.

To save on the snark, we will simply list the ten that we would "cut" as future prospects: Mychal Mulder, Eric McCree, JeQuan Lewis, Bronson Koenig, Sam Cassell Jr., Jordan Adams, Danuel House, Sanjay Lumpkin, Dejan Todorovic, and Tim Kempton


The Sacramento angle

High expectations for summer success were quickly squashed as the Kings lost their opening two games. Their best player was Jack Cooley, a 26 year-old, 6'9", 246 lb. pivot that came off the bench. That Cooley, a classic journeymen professional BIG, was more efficient (by a wide margin) than first rounds picks, and second year vets, tells you all you need to know about the reality of what happened in Las Vegas for the Kings. 

The team improved each time Jakarr Sampson entered the game as well. Sampson, a 6'8", 225 lb., unrestricted free agent forward, stood out defensively, providing much needed toughness. On offense, he is a guy without a position. He doesn't stretch the floor well enough (career NBA 3-pt. pct. is 23.7%) or make consistently sound decisions. He can be "o/c" (out of control, for those that don't know). We presently see his only position as a small-ball pivot. 

Frank Mason was very good before he went down with an ankle injury in game four for Sacramento. Mason carried Sacramento in a comeback during the third game against the Lakers. He finished that contest with 24 points, five rebounds, and six assists as a bench reserve to De'Aaron Fox (we wrote about Fox in the lottery picks section above). 

Buddy Hield had some good moments, showing an increased ability to create his own shot off the dribble. In his defense, teams could easily key on him due to the lack of post presence provided by two disappointing Kings, George Papagiannis, and Skal Labissiere.

Labissiere reverted to fading away from contact too much for our liking. Papagiannis struggled to keep pace with the fast play, and he showed us again that his hands do not respond by NBA standards. 

Justin Jackson's good moments were too few and far between. He really struggled with the NBA three-point shot, making just 9 of 38 shots (23% 3-pt. fg). The Kings first round pick (15th overall by Portland, acquired via trade) did show his bright feel for the game. He just didn't have enough success in Las Vegas to warrant thinking he can immediately be a successful part of a winning NBA team's rotation. He may reach that status with NBA experience but Sacramento was wise to add a veteran like Vince Carter to not only teach but also be able to play meaningful minutes. 

Harry Giles did not play, and Malachi Richardson played only half of a game before injury forced him to miss the remainder of the Summer League. 

Kings fans who could not make the journey to Las Vegas improvised. Such was the case Monday (July 10th) in Sacramento as supportors crammed into the Golden 1 Center to watch the Kings play the Lakers on the arena's massive big screen. 

Notes

One thing we have noticed in years of watching Summer ball is that coaches NEED to "over-coach". The familiarity of players to their teammates is easily not like that of a NBA team or a college team. Guys are thrown together, and some plays are put in, but well-oiled execution is not the norm in Summer League. In game-closing, crunch time situations where we would normally encourage a coach to skip a timeout and let his players make a play by reading and reacting, we think it is much more prudent to call a timeout and get organized. The Clippers, being coached by Sam Cassell, did a great job in that area. Watching Cassell mentor young talent up close has me believing he will one day be an excellent NBA Head Coach. ...Former Kings player Randy Brown was Head Coach of the Chicago Bulls entry. ...One of the fun aspects of Summer League is how crazy the fan base can be. The multi-cultural crowd that cheers for the Lakers adopted Chinese player Ding Yangyuhang as their cult hero while Ding's Dallas squad played the game before the Lakers took to the court at Thomas and Mack. Ding received standing ovations and MVP chants during some of his games! ...We caught the Michael Jackson, One, Cirque De Soleil show at Mandalay Bay. WOW! Crazy acrobatics, special effects (including a hologram MJ), and high energy music and dancing made for a memorable production. ...One of the beautiful things about Las Vegas is the quality of choices for dining after 10 pm. In eight days we dined three times at Firefly on Paradise. The tapas are top notch! ...Another restaurant of choice was Asian BBQ and Noodle (S. Jones blvd.), a 'hole in the wall' joint that was recognized as one of the ten best Chinese Restaurants in the United States (at least, that is what they claim). We believe the hype! Their Hong Kong style chow-mein is world class! ...Las Vegas is alive and loud darn near 24 hours a day. For a real feel of Vegas we recommend taking a walk in the area by the High Roller, a 550 foot tall Ferris wheel. Since our last visit, a new In N Out Burger has come online near the attraction. Also included in that cluster of shops are: Brooklyn Bowl, Yard House, Tilted Kilt, Flour and Barley, and Virgil's BBQ. ...The Italian chain, Maggiano's (at Fashion Show Mall) is a perfect place to get away from the loud music and 21-26 year-old demographic vibe that permeates the city. 

It is safe to say that we LOVE NBA Summer League in Las Vegas! See you all there in 2018!

Tuesday, July 18, 2017

Matt Thomas shoots the lights out Saturday

Matt Thomas (pictured), an undrafted rookie from Iowa State, was the most efficient player on a winning team during action Saturday at the NBA Las Vegas Summer League. The 6'4" shooting guard scored 17 points (6-9 FG, 3-4 3-pt., 2-2 FT), grabbed 8 rebounds, and snared two steals in 28 minutes. The Lakers advanced to the semi-finals of the championship tournament with a 115-106 win over the Brooklyn Nets. ...Also advancing with wins: Portland, Memphis and Dallas. 

Joining Thomas on the Hoop Obsession All Summer League team for July 15th...

  • Rondae Hollis-Jefferson. Brooklyn. 15 points (5-10 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 5-6 FT), 13 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocked shots in 26 minutes. 
  • Vince Hunter. Memphis. 13 points (4-6 FG, 5-9 FT), 12 rebounds in 24 minutes. 
  • Nicolas Brussino. Dallas. 18 points (7-11 FG, 4-6 3-pt.), 5 rebounds, 3 steals in 23 minutes. 
  • Yogi Ferrell. Dallas. 20 points (7-12 FG, 4-8 3-pt., 2-3 FT), 3 rebounds, 5 assists in 23 minutes. 
  • Deyonta Davis. Memphis. 8 points (4-6 FG), 8 rebounds, 2 steals in 20 minutes. 
  • Spencer Dinwiddie. Brooklyn. 22 points (6-11 FG, 3-8 3-pt., 7-12 FT), 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 0 turnovers in 29 minutes. 
  • Kyle Kuzma. Lakers. 26 points (10-19 FG, 3-7 3-pt., 3-5 FT), 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocked shots in 31 minutes. 
  • Dorian Finney-Smith. Dallas. 10 points (3-5 FG, 3-4 3-pt., 1-2 FT), 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals in 22 minutes. 
  • Jeff Ledbetter. San Antonio. 13 points (4-6 FG, 2-4 3-pt., 3-3 FT), 3 rebounds in 21 minutes. 
  • Jake Layman. Portland. 23 points (9-24 FG, 3-9 3-pt., 2-3 FT), 7 rebounds, 2 steals in 25 minutes. 
  • Caleb Swanigan. Portland. 16 points (8-14 FG, 0-2 3-pt.), 9 rebounds, 3 assists in 32 minutes. 

Dylan Ennis stars on consolation day

Dylan Ennis exploded for 35 points (12-20 FG, 8-11 3-pt., 3-6 FT), seven rebounds and three steals in the Golden State Warriors NBA Las Vegas Summer League victory Friday. Undrafted out of Oregon, Ennis came off the Warriors bench for 28 minutes of playing time. He helped GSW defeat the L.A. Clippers 109-100. ...For the hardcore hoop fan, the second Friday (day eight of eleven) of Summer League in Las Vegas has become an annual day of interest with teams often giving extended minutes to deep bench players. Who stood out?

Joining Ennis on the Hoop Obsession All Summer League team for July 14, 2017...

  • Matt Costello - Minnesota. 14 points (5-5 FG, 4-6 FT), 11 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals in 26 minutes. 
  • Tony Bradley - Utah. 19 points (8-10 FG, 3-4 FT), 8 rebounds, 2 blocked shots in 26 minutes.
  • Furkan Korkmaz - Philadelphia. 22 points (9-16 FG, 4-9 3-pt.), 8 rebounds in 26 minutes. 
  • Chris Johnson - Houston. 17 points (6-12 FG, 5-9 3-pt.), 5 rebounds in 20 minutes.  
  • Kennedy Meeks - Toronto. 18 points (8-14 FG, 2-5 3-pt.), 9 rebounds, 3 assists in 27 minutes. 
  • Monte Morris - Denver. 17 points (7-13 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 3-4 FT), 6 assists in 20 minutes. 
  • Jack Cooley - Sacramento. 13 points (4-8 FG, 1-1 3-pt., 4-8 FT), 11 rebounds, 2 steals in 22 minutes. 
  • Kendall Marshall - Clippers. 4 points (2-6 FG), 5 rebounds, 11 assists in 20 minutes. 
  • Ryan Arcidiacono - Chicago. 16 points (6-9 FG, 3-4 3-pt., 1-2 FT), 8 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals in 35 minutes. 
  • Denzel Valentine - Chicago. 21 points (9-17 FG, 3-9 3-pt.), 5 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals in 32 minutes. 
  • Noah Allen - Golden State. 11 points (3-6 FG, 2-4 3-pt., 3-4 FT), 6 rebounds, 5 assists in 27 minutes. 


Monday, July 17, 2017

Baldwin grand on day seven

Wade Baldwin IV was the most efficient player on a winning team during day seven of play in the 2017 NBA Las Vegas Summer League. The second year pro guard helped keep Memphis perfect (4-0) with a 21 point (8-11 FG, 2-3 3-pt., 3-3 FT), seven rebound performance. Baldwin played 27 minutes in the Grizzlies 102-98 victory over Phoenix. ...Other advancing teams in the Summer League tournament included San Antonio, Brooklyn, Boston, Miami, Portland, Dallas, and the Los Angeles Lakers. 

Joining Baldwin on the Hoop Obsession All Summer League team for Thursday July, 13th...

  • Fred VanVleet - Toronto. 31 points (10-17 FG, 3-7 3-pt., 8-8 FT), 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals in 30 minutes. 
  • Mike James - Phoenix. 32 points (11-16 FG, 3-6 3-pt., 7-7 FT), 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals in 37 minutes. 
  • Rosco Allen - Boston. 18 points (7-8 FG, 2-2 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 4 rebounds in 22 minutes. 
  • Wayne Selden - Memphis. 33 points (10-17 FG, 3-8 3-pt., 10-11 FT), 4 rebounds in 33 minutes. 
  • Malik Beasley - Denver. 20 points (7-16 FG, 4-6 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 7 rebounds in 25 minutes. 
  • Jalen Jones - New Orleans. 15 points (6-12 FG, 2-3 3-pt., 1-2 FT), 7 rebounds in 23 minutes. 
  • Cheick Diallo - New Orleans. 13 points, 13 rebounds, 2 blocked shots in 30 minutes. 
  • Rondae Hollis-Jefferson - Brooklyn. 9 points (4-5 FG, 1-1 FT), 8 rebounds in 20 minutes. 
  • Okaro White - Miami. 23 points (8-17 FG, 4-9 3-pt., 3-5 FT) , 8 rebounds, 2 bocked shots in 32 minutes. 
  • Patrick McCaw - Golden State. 20 points (6-13 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 7-8 FT), 3 steals in 24 minutes. 
  • Luis Montero - Sacramento. 13 points (4-6 FG, 4-6 3-pt., 1-2 FT), 9 rebounds in 28 minutes. 

Thursday, July 13, 2017

Vegas day six. Lonzo balls

Lonzo Ball was the most efficient player (per-minute) on a winning team during Wednesday's action at the 2017 NBA Las Vegas Summer League. The Los Angeles Lakers number two overall selection in the 2017 NBA Draft was beyond impressive. Ball scored 36 points (12-22 FG, 3-10 3-pt., 9-12 FT), with eight rebounds, eleven assists, five steals, and two blocked shots in 36 minutes. The Lakers beat Philadelphia 103-102.

Joining Ball on the Hoop Obsession daily All Summer League Team for July 12...

  • John Collins - Atlanta. 25 points (11-15 FG, 1-1 3-pt., 2-3 FT), 9 rebounds in 25 minutes. 
  • Torrey Craig - Denver. 27 points (8-14 FG, 1-4 3-pt., 10-11 FT), 11 rebounds, 3 blocked shots in 29 minutes.
  • Jarnell Stokes - Portland. 16 points (8-11 FG, 0-2 FT), 17 rebounds in 27 minutes. 
  • Quinn Cook - New Orleans. 26 points (11-16 FG, 2-2 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 5 rebounds, 7 assists in 31 minutes. 
  • Georgios Papagiannis - Sacramento. 17 points (8-15 FG, 1-1 FT), 13 rebounds, 2 blocked shots in 28 minutes. 
  • Monte Morris - Denver. 15 points (5-9 FG, 0-2 3-pt., 5-5 FT), 5 rebounds, 4 assists in 24 minutes. 
  • Patrick McCaw - Golden State. 26 points (10-16 FG, 2-7 3-pt., 4-5 FT), 4 rebounds, 5 assists in 32 minutes. 
  • Cheick Diallo - New Orleans. 21 points (7-9 FG, 7-8 FT), 8 rebounds in 31 minutes. 
  • Josh Jackson - Phoenix. 21 points (9-17 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 3-6 FT), 15 rebounds, 2 blocked shots in 32 minutes. 
  • Alex Poythress - Philadelphia. 16 points (7-11 FG, 1-3 3-pt, 1-2 FT), 5 rebounds in 21 minutes. 
  • Chris Johnson - Houston. 20 points (8-13 FG, 2-3 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 7 rebounds, 2 steals in 30 minutes. 

Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Brooks best on day five of Vegas Summer League

Dillon Brooks (pictured), the 45th pick overall in the 2017 NBA Draft, was the standout player during the fifth day of competition in the NBA Las Vegas Summer League. The former Oregon Ducks wing scored 24 points (9-11 FG, 4-5 3-pt., 2-2 FT), grabbed six rebounds and had two steals in just 25 minutes off the bench for the Memphis Grizzlies. The Grizz improved to 3-0 with a 84-81 overtime win over the Utah Jazz. 

Joining Brooks on the Hoop Obsession daily All Summer League Team...

  • Jordan Bell - Golden State. 5 points (2-2 FG, 1-1 FT), 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 5 steals, 6 blocked shots in 32 minutes. 
  • Sheldon McClellan - Washington. 20 points (8-11 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 4-4 FT), 2 steals in 23 minutes. 
  • Donovan Mitchell - Utah. 37 points (10-24 FG, 3-10 3-pt., 14-16 FT), 3 rebounds, 8 steals in 34 minutes. 
  • Shayne Whittington - San Antonio. 10 points (4-5 FG, 2-2 FT), 7 rebounds, 3 steals in 22 minutes. 
  • Caleb Swanigan - Portland. 19 points (8-14 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 13 rebounds, 2 steals in 32 minutes. 
  • Matt Costello - Minnesota. 14 points (6-10 FG, 2-3 FT), 15 rebounds, 2 blocked shots in 34 minutes. 
  • Eric Griffin - Utah. 12 points (4-9 FG, 0-3 3-pt., 4-5 FT), 11 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 4 blocked shots in 32 minutes. 
  • Bryn Forbes - San Antonio. 35 points (11-26 FG, 6-11 3-pt, 7-7 FT), 5 rebounds, 4 assists in 34 minutes. 
  • Antonio Blakeney - Chicago. 23 points (9-17 FG, 4-5 3-pt., 1-3 FT), 8 rebounds in 34 minutes. 
  • Larry Drew II - Philadelphia. 8 points (4-8 FG, 0-3 3-pt.), 5 assists, 4 steals, 0 turnovers in 24 minutes. 
  • Duje Dukan - Chicago. 11 points (3-6 FG, 2-4 3-pt., 3-4 FT), 3 assists, 3 steals in 25 minutes. 

Tuesday, July 11, 2017

Day four in Vegas, Goodwin good in win

Archie interviewed by Ros
Archie Goodwin continued to look like a player that could play rotation minutes in the NBA. The 6'5", 205 lb. combo guard was able to get to the rim virtually at will in Brooklyn's 95-66 beatdown of New Orleans. Goodwin was the most efficient player (per-minute) during Monday's day four action at the NBA Las Vegas Summer League. Goodwin scored 18 points (6-9 FG, 2-3 3-pt., 4-6 FT), dished eight assists (with only one turnover), and blocked two shots in 20 minutes off the bench. 

Given the crowded state of the Brooklyn backcourt heading into the 2017-18 season (Lin, D Russell, Dinwiddie, LeVert, Whitehead, Kilpatrick, Hollis-Jefferson), we would advise all NBA teams to see what the cost of Goodwin is. In a small sample size, Goodwin rated eighth out of 97 in efficiency per-minute among two-guards in 2016-17. He finished the season with a 1.71-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio, and his defense was excellent too. He was eighth in DEFRTG differential among that same pool of shooting guards. Critics will point to his inconsistent perimeter shooting but Goodwin seems to be making some strides in that regard (33% 3-pt. last season). 

Focusing strictly on the positives, Goodwin is a terrific two-way player that still has room to grow at just 22 years of age. 

Joining Goodwin on the daily Hoop Obsession All Summer League team for July 10th...

  • Frank Mason - Sacramento. 24 points (9-13 FG, 2-3 3-pt., 4-4 FT), 5 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals in 24 minutes. 
  • Brandon Paul - Cleveland. 21 points (8-12 FG, 4-7 3-pt., 1-1 FT), 4 rebounds in 20 minutes. 
  • Jamil Wilson - Clippers. 18 points (8-10 FG, 2-4 3-pt.), 8 rebounds, 8 assists in 27 minutes. 
  • Alex Caruso - Lakers. 18 points (7-9 FG, 4-5 3-pt.), 4 rebounds, 9 assists, 4 steals in 30 minutes. 
  • DeAndre Bembry - Atlanta. 17 points (6-11 FG, 2-3 3-pt., 3-4 FT), 3 rebounds, 4 assists in 21 minutes. 
  • Caris LeVert - Brooklyn. 17 points (6-12 FG, 2-6 3-pt., 3-4 FT), 8 rebounds in 20 minutes. 
  • Thomas Bryant. Lakers. 10 points (4-7 FG, 0-3 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 8 rebounds in 20 minutes. 
  • Jakob Poeltl - Raptors. 17 points (8-13 FG, 1-2 FT), 10 rebounds in 28 minutes. 
  • Montrezl Harrell - Clippers. 21 points (10-13 FG, 0-1 3-pt, 1-4 FT), 2 steals, 3 blocked shots in 26 minutes. 
  • D.J. Wilson - Milwaukee. 17 points (7-13 FG, 3-6 3-pt.), 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 blocked shots in 28 minutes. 
  • John Collins - Atlanta. 15 points (7-15 FG, 1-1 FT), 11 rebounds, 2 blocked shots in 25 minutes. 

Monday, July 10, 2017

John Collins goes off on day three.

John Collins, the Atlanta Hawks first round pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, was the most efficient player (per-minute) during action Sunday in the NBA Summer League. The 19th pick of the first round scored 22 points and grabbed ten rebounds in just 24 minutes. His trademark in college at Wake Forest was shooting a great field goal percentage. He did that Sunday by netting nine of his eleven shots (he was four of seven from the free throw line). The Hawks beat New Orleans 84-82. 

Joining Collins on the Hoop Obsession All Summer League Team for July 9th...

  • DeAndre Bembry - Atlanta. 16 points (4-6 FG, 8-10 FT), 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 6 steals in 26 minutes. 
  • Dennis Smith Jr. - Dallas. 25 points (8-14 FG, 3-5 3-pt., 6-9 FT), 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals in 27 minutes. 
  • Matt Costello - Minnesota. 12 points (5-10 FG, 0-2 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 15 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals in 27 minutes. 
  • Sterling Brown - Milwaukee. 16 points (5-10 FG, 2-4 3-pt., 4-4 FT), 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals in 21 minutes. 
  • Rashad Vaughn - Milwaukee. 31 points (13-18 FG, 3-7 3-pt., 2-6 FT), 8 rebounds, 2 blocked shots in 33 minutes. 
  • Quinn Cook - New Orleans. 25 points (12-18 FG, 1-5 3-pt.), 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals in 31 minutes. 
  • Perry Ellis - Minnesota. 19 points (7-11 FG, 3-5 3-pt., 2-2 FT) in 22 minutes. 
  • Tony Bradley - Utah. 16 points (8-15 FG), 9 rebounds in 21 minutes. 
  • Bryn Forbes - San Antonio. 35 points (8-17 FG, 2-9 3-pt., 17-17 FT), 3 assists, 2 steals in 29 minutes. 
  • Jarell Martin - Memphis. 21 points (8-16 FG, 0-2 3pt., 5-6 FT), 10 rebounds in 27 minutes. 
  • Davis Bertans - San Antonio. 20 points (6-10 FG, 4-6 3-pt., 4-5 FT), 2 steals, 2 blocked shots in 24 minutes. 

Sunday, July 9, 2017

No picnic for opponents of Yogi

Yogi made no boo boos Saturday. 
Yogi Ferrell was the most efficient player on a winning team Saturday, during the second day of play in the NBA Las Vegas Summer League. The Dallas Mavericks, sophomore guard scored 14 points (5-7 FG, 3-3 3-pt., 1-1 FT), grabbed five rebounds, dished four assists, and snared three steals in 25 minutes. Dallas beat Chicago handily 91-75 in front of a capacity crowd at the Thomas and Mack Center. 

The big news Saturday; Markelle Fultz, the number one overall selection in the 2017 NBA Draft, sprained his left ankle. It appears highly unlikely that Fultz will play again for the Philadelphia 76'ers in the tournament which runs through July 17th. 

Joining Ferrell on the Hoop Obsession All Summer League team for July 8, 2017...

  • Daniel Ochefu - Wizards. 13 points (3-5 FG, 7-7 FT), 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 5 blocked shots in 30 minutes. 
  • Kyle Kuzma - Lakers. 31 points (12-26 FG, 5-10 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 9 rebounds in 33 minutes. 
  • Brandon Ashley - Mavs. 21 points (9-15 FG, 2-6 3-pt., 1-2 FT) in 20 minutes. 
  • Jayson Tatum - Celtics. 27 points (9-19 FG, 1-1 3-pt., 8-8 FT), 11 rebounds in 33 minutes. 
  • Jakob Poeltl - Raptors. 15 points (6-8 FG, 0-1 3-pt, 3-4 FT), 10 rebounds in 26 minutes. 
  • Bam Adebayo - Heat. 18 points (6-12 FG, 6-6 FT), 10 rebounds, 2 steals in 29 minutes. 
  • Wayne Selden - Grizzlies. 28 points (10-20 FG, 4-6 3-pt., 4-7 FT), 6 rebounds, 3 steals in 30 minutes. 
  • Dennis Smith Jr. - Mavs. 14 points (5-12 FG, 1-6 3-pt., 3-3 FT), 7 rebounds, 6 assists in 25 minutes. 
  • Pascal Siakam - Raptors. 17 points (6-11 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 4-6 FT), 4 rebounds in 22 minutes. 
  • Fred VanVleet - Raptors. 9 points (4-9 FG, 0-3 3-pt., 1-1 FT), 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals in 22 minutes. 
  • Lonzo Ball - Lakers. 11 points (5-13 FG, 1-5 3-pt.), 11 rebounds, 11 assists in 34 minutes. 

Saturday, July 8, 2017

Poeltl stars on opening day in Vegas

Jakob Poeltl was the most efficient player (per-minute) on a winning team during the opening day of play in the 2017 NBA Las Vegas Summer League. The Toronto Raptors, 2016 lottery draft pick (9th overall) had 12 points (6-8 FG) and ten rebounds in just 22 minutes to help the Raptors get past the New Orleans Pelicans 96-93. 

Friday's games were overwhelmingly well received, with fans finding it difficult to find a seat for the primetime showdown between the Los Angeles teams, the Clippers and the Lakers. Lonzo Ball, the second overall pick in this year's draft, struggled with his deep shooting, and ultimately the Lakers lost to the Clippers in overtime. 

Joining Poeltl on the Hoop Obsession All-Summer League Team for July 7, 2017...

  • Jack Cooley - Sacramento. 11 points (4-5 FG, 3-4 FT), 10 rebounds, in 23 minutes. 
  • Robert Carter Jr. - Denver. 17 points (5-7 FG, 2-2 3-pt., 5-5 FT) , 6 rebounds in 23 minutes. 
  • Troy Williams - Houston. 29 points (8-15 FG, 4-7 3-pt., 9-12 FT), 2 steals in 24 minutes. 
  • Pascal Siakam - Toronto. 24 points (10-14 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 3-3 FT), 4 rebounds in 30 minutes. 
  • Cheick Diallo - New Orleans. 27 points (11-18 FG, 5-5 FT), 10 rebounds in 34 minutes.
  • Gary Payton II - Milwaukee. 10 points (4-7 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 5 steals, 0 turnovers in 25 minutes. 
  • Archie Goodwin - Brooklyn. 14 points (6-10 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 6 rebounds in 22 minutes. 
  • Isaiah Taylor - Houston. 7 points (2-3 FG, 3-4 FT), 4 rebounds, 10 assists, 1 turnover in 25 minutes. 
  • De'Aaron Fox - Sacramento. 18 points (7-16 FG, 0-3 3-pt., 4-6 FT), 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 5 steals in 27 minutes. 
  • Davon Reed - Phoenix. 17 points (6-11 FG, 2-4 3-pt., 3-3 FT), 2 steals in 20 minutes. 
  • Zhou Qi - Houston. 17 points (7-13 FG, 2-6 3-pt., 1-3 FT), 6 rebounds in 25 minutes. 
Notes: Among those who saw at least 20 minutes of playing time, only Malachi Richardson of the Sacramento Kings had a per-minute efficiency rating of "zero" (that is not good, in case you are not hip to our rating system.) ...On a "normal" day, a "EFR" of .818 will get you onto the HoopObsession daily All-Summer League Team. However, Brice Johnson, who posted that great number was edged out by Poeltl, Cooley, Diallo, Carter, and Siakam, who all had slightly better ratings.

Friday, July 7, 2017

Dotson gets Summer Knicks a W

Dotson can drill it.
Damyean Dotson continued to be a bright spot for the summer version of the New York Knicks during the final day of play in the Orlando Summer League. Dotson emerged as the most efficient player (per minute) on a winning team for play on July 6, 2017. Dotson scored 20 points (8-11 FG, 4-7 3-pt.), grabbed nine rebounds and dished four assists in the Knicks 91-72 win over the Miami Heat. 

Dotson was the 44th selection in the 2017 NBA Draft after playing at both Oregon and Houston. He is a sweet shooting 6'6", 205 lb. guard that repeatedly showed he can hit jumpers at NBA speed within the structure of an offense. 

The BIG game of the day was the Orlando Summer League championship game. It went to overtime with the Dallas Mavericks prevailing 83-81 over the Detroit Pistons. Johnathan Motley, a undrafted rookie, hit the game winning mid range jump shot. 

Joining Dotson on our Hoop Obsession All Summer League Team for July 6th...

  • Przemek Karnowski - Orlando. 20 points (6-9 FG, 8-8 FT), 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals in 25 minutes. 
  • Dwayne Bacon - Charlotte. 29 points (11-20 FG, 0-2 3-pt., 7-7 FT), 8 rebounds in 31 minutes. 
  • Isaiah Miles - Philadelphia. 18 points (7-10 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 3-5 FT), 7 rebounds in 21 minutes. 
  • Jonah Bolden - Philadelphia. 16 points (5-10 FG, 3-6 3-pt., 3-4 FT), 8 rebounds, 3 steals in 25 minutes. 
  • Pierre Jackson - Detroit. 22 points (9-18 FG, 4-11 3-pt.), 8 assists, 1 turnover in 27 minutes. 
  • Luke Kornet - New York. 10 points (3-8 FG, 2-6 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 5 rebounds, 3 assists in 20 minutes. 
  • Luke Kennard - Detroit. 24 points (9-15 FG, 3-3 3-pt., 3-3 FT), 5 rebounds in 33 minutes. 
  • Nigel Hayes - New York. 13 points (6-12 FG, 1-1 FT), 6 rebounds, 3 assists in 23 minutes. 
  • Johnny O'Bryant - Charlotte. 23 points (7-15 FG, 1-3 3-pt., 8-9 FT), 5 rebounds in 27 minutes. 
  • Briante Weber - Charlotte. 16 points (6-12 FG, 0-2 3-pt., 4-4 FT), 5 rebounds, 4 steals in 27 minutes. 
  • Josh Huestis - OKC. 16 points (5-9 FG, 1-5 3-pt., 5-7 FT), 6 rebounds in 34 minutes. 
Three players had the dubious distinction of posting efficiency ratings at either "zero" or "minus": Kris Joseph, Kalin Lucas and Derrick White. 


Thursday, July 6, 2017

Brandon Paul stars on July 5th

Paul was pleasing Wednesday
Brandon Paul helped keep the Dallas Mavericks perfect through four NBA Summer League contests. The former Illinois guard scored 20 points (7-12 FG, 6-10 3-pt.), grabbed 6 rebounds, dished 4 assists, and snared three steals in 25 minutes as the Mavs beat Oklahoma City 96-75. 

Joining Paul on the Hoop Obsession All-Summer League team for July 5th...

  • Dante Exum - Utah. 26 points (9-16 FG, 3-5 3-pt., 5-6 FT), 5 rebounds, 10 assists in 29 minutes. 
  • Bryn Forbes - San Antonio. 31 points (12-20 FG, 6-8 3-pt., 1-3 FT), 3 assists, 3 steals, 0 turnovers in 29 minutes. 
  • Henry Ellenson - Detroit. 29 points (12-20 FG, 4-8 3pt. 1-1 FT), 6 rebounds in 28 minutes. 
  • Eric Griffin - Utah. 14 points (5-8 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 3-3 FT), 8 rebounds in 21 minutes. 
  • Jayson Tatum - Boston. 23 points (10-18 FG, 1-3 3pt., 2-2 FT), 10 rebounds in 31 minutes. 
  • Markelle Fultz - Philadelphia. 23 points (9-16 FG, 4-8 3-pt., 1-1 FT), 5 assists, 5 rebounds in 26 minutes. 
  • Pierre Jackson - Detroit. 15 points (6-11, 2-3 3-pt., 1-2 FT), 6 assists, 2 steals in 23 minutes. 
  • Johnny O'Bryant - Charlotte. 26 points (10-18 FG, 2-6 3-pt., 4-4 FT), 4 rebounds in 30 minutes. 
  • Marshall Plumlee - New York. 9 points (3-5 FG, 3-5 FT), 9 rebounds in 24 minutes. 
  • Hassan Martin - Orlando. 12 points (4-11 FG, 4-5 FT), 7 rebounds, 2 blocked shots in 23 minutes. 
  • Ding Yangyuhang - Dallas. 10 points (3-4 FG, 4-6 FT), 3 assists in 25 minutes. 
Notes: Detoit and Dallas will play for the Orlando Summer League championship at 2 pm (eastern) Thursday. The game will be aired live on NBATV. 

Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Warney provides fireworks

Warney was the best Tuesday. 
The most efficient player (per-minute) on a winning team during Tuesday's play in the 2017 Orlando NBA Summer League was Jameel Warney. The Dallas BIG-man had 17 points (7-8 FG, 3-4 FT), 4 rebounds, 3 steals, and 2 blocked shots in just 23 minutes. The Mavs beat the Pacers 94-79, keeping Dallas undefeated in Summer play. 

Joining Warney on our Hoop Obsession All-Summer League team for July 4th, 2017...

  • Zach Auguste - Miami. 11 points (5-6 FG, 1-1 3-pt.), 12 rebounds, 4 steals in 26 minutes.
  • RaShawn Thomas - OKC. 13 points (6-12 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 0-1 FT), 8 rebounds, 2 steals in 21 minutes. 
  • Treveon Graham - Charlotte. 19 points (6-12 FG, 3-4 3-pt., 4-6 FT), 8 rebounds, 2 steals in 28 minutes. 
  • Jarnell Stokes - Indiana. 15 points (5-6 FG, 5-6 FT), 7 rebounds, 4 blocked shots in 27 minutes. 
  • Anthony Gill - Charlotte. 9 points (3-4 FG, 0-1 3-pt., 3-4 FT), 4 rebounds in 20 minutes. 
  • Dwight Buycks - Dallas. 14 points (6-9 FG, 0-2 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 5 rebounds, 5 assists in 28 minutes. 
  • Okaro White - Miami. 29 points (9-20 FG, 2-7 3-pt., 9-10 FT), 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocked shots in 37 minutes. 
  • Dwayne Bacon - Charlotte. 17 points (6-12 FG, 1-4 3 pt., 4-4 FT), 3 steals in 28 minutes. 
  • Kris Joseph - Charlotte. 12 points (3-6 FG, 2-4 3-pt., 4-5 FT), 4 rebounds in 21 minutes. 
  • Luke Kennard - Detroit. 18 points (7-16 FG, 1-5 3-pt., 3-3 FT), 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals in 31 minutes. 
  • Trey McKinney-Jones - 11 points (5-9 FG, 1-3 3-pt.), 6 rebounds in 26 minutes. 

Tuesday, July 4, 2017

Mitchell's debut is Jazzy

Mitchell was GREAT Monday. 
On a five-game NBA Summer League slate, no player was more efficient per minute than Donovan Mitchell, the 13th pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. The former Louisville standout that is now property of the Utah Jazz, dazzled on both ends of the floor. Mitchell scored 23 points (10-17 FG, 3-6 3-pt.), dished five assists, and snared three steals in 25 minutes. Utah dropped San Antonio 87-74 in the nightcap of two Utah Summer League contests. 

Game One in Utah featured the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76'ers. Jayson Tatum, the Celtics' pick in the 2017 NBA Draft (3rd overall) hit what turned out to be the game winning jump shot. The final score was 89-88. 

Action also continued in the Orlando NBA Summer League. Oklahoma City improved to 2-0 with a 99-87 victory over the hapless Summer Knicks (0-3). ...Dallas improved to 2-0 with a 86-76 win over the host, Magic. ...Indiana upped their record to 3-0 by defeating Miami 86-83. The Heat remain winless in three tries.

Joining Mitchell on the Hoop Obsession All-Summer League Team for July 3rd...

  • Bam Adebayo - Miami. 29 points (8-14 FG, 13-17 FT), 11 rebounds, 2 blocks in 31 mins. 
  • Josh Huestis - OKC. 26 points (11-17 FG, 4-8 3-pt.), 7 rebounds in 27 mins. 
  • Jaylen Brown - Boston. 29 points (10-16 FG, 3-4 3-pt., 6-10 FT), 13 rebounds in 30 mins. 
  • Markel Brown - OKC. 20 points (8-10 FG, 3-4 3-pt., 1-1 FT), 2 steals in 26 mins. 
  • Chasson Randle - New York. 20 points (6-8 FG, 3-5 3-pt., 5-5 FT) in 23 mins. 
  • Jayson Tatum - Boston. 21 points (8-17 FG, 1-5 3-pt., 4-5 FT), 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 5 steals in 33 mins. 
  • Dante Exum - Utah. 18 points (7-12 FG, 2-5 3-pt., 2-3 FT), 6 rebounds, 5 assists in 27 mins. 
  • Dakari Johnson - OKC. 21 points (9-18 FG, 3-5 FT), 7 rebounds, 4 assists in 29 mins. 
  • TJ Leaf - Indiana. 19 points (9-17 FG, 1-4 3-pt., 0-1 FT), 10 rebounds in 28 mins. 
  • Jonah Bolden - Philadelphia. 9 points (4-10 FG, 1-4 3-pt.), 4 rebounds, 4 blocks in 22 mins. 
  • Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot - Philadelphia. 16 points (6-17 FG, 1-9 3-pt., 3-3 FT), 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 0 turnovers in 32 mins. 
Two players had the dreaded "zero" efficiency game: Jaron Blossomgame of San Antonio, and Tyrone Wallace of Utah. 

Sunday, July 2, 2017

Day two. Jonathan Isaac shines.

Isaac was the best Sunday
The Orlando Magic used the sixth pick in the 2017 NBA Draft on Jonathan Isaac, a 6'11", freshman forward from Florida State. Sunday, in the second day of play in the NBA Orlando Summer League, Isaac showed more than just a glimpse of the talent oozing from his being. Isaac scored 15 points (7-12 FG, 0-2 3-pt., 1-2 FT), and grabbed 13 rebounds in the Magic's 81-68 win over the Miami Heat. Isaac did all his damage in just 22 minutes of playing time, making him the most efficient player (per minute) on a winning team. 

Our Hoop Obsession All NBA Orlando Summer League team for day two:

  • Louis Labeyrie - New York. 10 points (4-6 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 1-2 FT), 11 rebounds in 21 mins. 
  • Marcus Georges-Hunt - Orlando. 12 points (3-5 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 5-5 FT), 7 rebounds in 23 mins. 
  • Derrick Walton Jr. - Orlando. 13 points (5-7 FG, 2-2 3-pt., 1-2 FT), 3 rebounds, 3 assists in 22 mins. 
  • Chris Johnson - Indiana. 11 points (4-5 FG, 3-4 3-pt.), 7 rebounds, 2 steals in 29 mins. 
  • Eric Moreland - Detroit. 15 points (5-6 FG, 5-7 FT), 6 rebounds, 4 blocked shots in 24 mins. 
  • Henry Ellenson - Detroit. 14 points (5-9 FG, 2-4 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals in 29 mins. 
  • Travis Leslie - Indiana. 20 points (8-15 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 3-4 FT), 4 rebounds in 24 mins. 
  • Luke Kennard - Detroit. 14 points (5-13 FG, 1-5 3-pt., 3-3 FT), 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals in 28 mins, 
  • Treveon Graham - Charlotte. 18 points (6-12 FG, 1-4 3-pt., 5-6 FT), 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals in 30 mins. 
  • Lorenzo Brown - Detroit. 11 points (3-6 FG, 1-1 3-pt., 4-6 FT), 5 rebounds in 24 mins. 
  • Jarnell Stokes - Indiana. 10 points (3-8 FG, 4-4 FT), 7 rebounds, 2 steals in 28 mins. 
Canyon Barry was the lone player that played at least 20 minutes that posted a Hoop Obsession efficiency rating of "zero" for the day. Barry made just one of his nine field goal attempts. 

2017 Summer League Day One belongs to Travis Leslie

As we have done in the past, Hoop Obsession will bring you a daily list of the players who ACTUALLY performed well in NBA Summer League games. It is important to understand that the mass media will show you highlights of the high draft picks and interesting storylines. They barely scratch the surface of what is really going on. 

So, please, come through this webspace each late night or early morning to see our daily All-Summer League teams. We are watching as many games as humanly possible, and then dissecting the boxscores. 

Leslie shot it well enough Saturday
The most efficient player (per-minute) on a winning team in the opening day of play in the Orlando NBA Summer League was Travis Leslie. The Indiana Pacers' two-guard came off the bench to provide 20 points (8-14 FG, 2-5 3-pt., 2-2 FT), and eight rebounds in 23 minutes. Leslie played for Fort Wayne of the D-League in 2015-16. ...The Pacers easily defeated the Orlando Magic 85-74. 

The Hoop Obsession All-Summer League Team for July 1, 2017: 

  • Vince Hunter - OKC. 21 points (7-10 FG, 2-3 3-pt., 5-5 FT), 7 rebounds in 26 mins. 
  • Eric Moreland - Detroit. 10 points (4-5 FG, 2-2 FT), 11 rebounds, 4 blocks in 28 mins. 
  • Dwight Buycks - Dallas. 16 points (5-10 FG, 1-4 3-pt., 5-8 FT), 7 steals, 6 assists, 4 rebounds in 30 mins. 
  • Luis Montero - Dallas. 8 points (3-5 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 1-2 FT), 3 rebounds, 3 assists in 21 mins. 
  • Treveon Graham - Charlotte. 16 points (6-14 FG, 0-2 3-pt., 4-7 FT), 13 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals in 29 mins. 
  • Markel Brown - OKC. 9 points (3-4 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 2-2 FT), 5 rebounds, 3 steals, in 23 mins. 
  • Dakari Johnson - OKC. 18 points (6-13 FG, 6-10 FT), 10 rebounds in 28 mins. 
  • Matt Costello - Orlando. 7 points (3-6 FG, 1-2 3-pt.), 5 rebounds, 4 assists in 21 minutes. 
  • Pierre Jackson - Detroit. 13 points (4-9 FG, 1-2 3-pt., 4-4 FT), 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 0 turnovers in 24 minutes. 
  • Chris Johnson (Dayton) - Indiana. 9 points (4-10 FG, 1-5 3-pt.), 12 rebounds in 28 mins. 
  • Bam Adebayo - Miami. 14 points (6-14 FG, 2-3 FT), 10 rebounds, 3 blocks, in 33 mins. 
Two players that really struggled on opening day were Zak Irvin and Jake Odum. Both posted HoopObsession.com Efficiency Ratings at or below "zero". What does a "zero-line" look like? Irvin played 29 minutes but only scored four points (2-8 FG, 0-6 3-pt.). He had one assist but he also had two turnovers, and he only grabbed three rebounds.