Washington Wizards Rookie Struggles in Las Vegas Summer League
Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr endured a night he'd rather forget in the Las Vegas Summer League, setting an unfortunate record during the team’s loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. Sarr, who played less than 30 minutes, shot 0 of 15 from the field, marking the most field goal attempts by a player without a make in a Summer League game since at least 2017.
A Historic Struggle
Sarr’s night was emblematic of his overall struggles in the Summer League. Despite contributing elsewhere with 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks, his shooting woes have been consistent. Across three games, the 19-year-old forward has shot below 35% in each outing, culminating in a dismal 19.5% shooting from the field overall.
Additionally, Sarr missed all seven of his 3-point attempts and both of his free throws in the game against Portland. Those numbers underscore the challenges he’s faced in adjusting to the professional level’s pace and defensive intensity.
Statistical Breakdown
While Sarr's shooting has been faltering, he has demonstrated his potential in other areas. Averaging 6.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, he is also contributing significantly on the defensive end with an average of 3 blocks per game in Las Vegas. These stats suggest that while his offensive game needs refinement, he possesses valuable defensive skills and hustle on the boards.
Background and Prospects
Sarr, a 19-year-old talent, spent last season in Western Australia with the Perth Wildcats as part of the NBL's Next Stars program. His time in Australia allowed him to gain exposure to professional competition, but the transition to the NBA's Summer League has evidently presented new challenges. Scouts and coaches watching his performance will focus on his adaptability and development, noting both his resilience and areas requiring improvement.
Looking Forward
Given his age and potential, Sarr's current struggles could be seen as growing pains that many young players experience. The Summer League serves as a proving ground where rookies and fringe players test their mettle against peers, and Sarr’s journey is just beginning. Wizards' coaching staff will likely work closely with him to refine his shooting mechanics and build his confidence. His defensive contributions and rebounding prowess provide a solid foundation upon which the rest of his game can be built.
In the realm of professional sports, particularly basketball, performance slumps are not uncommon, and players’ careers are often defined by how they respond to these adversities. For Alex Sarr, the Las Vegas Summer League might have started on a sour note, but it is also an opportunity for him to demonstrate growth and resilience in the upcoming games.