In a highly anticipated debut at the Las Vegas Summer League, 7-foot center Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick by the Washington Wizards in the 2024 NBA Draft, has found himself under scrutiny following a troubling performance against the Portland Trail Blazers. Fans and analysts alike had high hopes for the exceptionally mobile big man, touted for his ability to play on the perimeter, but recent outcomes have raised questions about his readiness for the league.
Struggles on the Court
Sarr's recent outing was nothing short of challenging. He went scoreless on 0-of-15 shooting, a game that marked the most field goal attempts without a make at Summer League since 2017. Despite being given abundant opportunities to find his rhythm, Sarr's attempts were fruitless. His shot selection was varied; primarily from the perimeter, where he took seven three-point shots, but none found the net. Even when he tried his luck in the paint with runners and floaters, success was elusive.
In a particularly demoralizing moment, a drive to the rim was blocked by Donovan Clingan, the former UConn standout and the No. 7 pick in the draft. This block typified the tough night Sarr experienced under the basket.
Offensive Woes Balanced by Defensive Prowess
While his shooting woes were glaring, Sarr did exhibit his capabilities in other facets of the game. He pulled down nine rebounds, dished out three assists, and recorded three blocks. These contributions highlighted his potential as a versatile player capable of impacting the game beyond scoring. However, the lack of offensive output cannot be ignored.
In his three games at the Las Vegas Summer League, Sarr has accumulated 20 points on a difficult 8-of-41 shooting from the field and has connected on just 2-of-17 attempts from three-point range. These statistics underscore a growing concern about his shooting proficiency, especially from beyond the arc.
Building Physicality and Skill
The consensus from fans and experts is that Sarr needs to bulk up to maximize his impact on the floor. An unnamed source close to the Wizards remarked, "This is what Sarr wanted. He wanted to be with the Wizards, and the Wizards wanted him. Many thought he was the best prospect in this draft because he's an exceptionally mobile 7-footer who can play on the perimeter. But the worry is his lack of physicality. He's going to need to put on 20-plus pounds of muscle to do what he wants on the floor. And I also don't fully trust the shooting from 3, which will be a key skill for him to hit on."
For the Wizards, the task is clear. The coaching staff and player development team must focus on enhancing Sarr's physicality and shooting ability. The team understands that refining these aspects of his game is crucial for his progression into a formidable two-way player.
Fan Expectations and Future Prospects
Initially, Sarr's selection excited the Wizards' fanbase, but recent performances have led to concerns about his viability as a key player. The early struggles have not extinguished all optimism, as many believe his journey with the Wizards is still in its nascent stages. The potential is evident in his mobility and versatility; the challenge lies in translating that into consistent performance on the court.
As Sarr continues to navigate the rigorous demands of the NBA, the support and patience of the organization and its fans will be crucial. While his early struggles are a cause for concern, the belief remains that with the right development, Sarr can harness his skills and rise to the expectations placed upon him.