The NBA Summer League is a time of excitement and overreactions, with top picks struggling and undrafted players shining. Last year, Victor Wembanyama was labeled a bust after just one game, showcasing the tendency of fans and analysts to jump to conclusions too quickly. However, teams like the Toronto Raptors take a more measured approach to evaluating their players’ performances in Vegas.
Among the Raptors’ young players at the Summer League, Ochai Agbaji stood out for the wrong reasons. The third-year player struggled both offensively and defensively, shooting poorly and looking lost on the court. While Agbaji still has time to turn things around, his lackluster performance in Vegas raised concerns about his impact on the team.
On the other hand, the Raptors saw promising signs from their rookies in Vegas. Jonathan Mogbo showed flashes of his potential before getting injured, demonstrating his ball-handling skills and passing ability. Ja’Kobe Walter, selected at 19, impressed with his shooting ability and footwork, showcasing his potential as a steal for the Raptors.
In the backcourt, Jamal Shead stood out for his defensive prowess, while Ulrich Chomche displayed raw talent and high upside. Chomche, in particular, showed flashes of his potential with his shot-blocking and transition game, hinting at a bright future ahead.
Overall, the Raptors learned that their rookies have the readiness to make an impact and the potential to grow into key contributors for the team. As the Summer League wraps up, the lessons learned in Vegas will guide the Raptors as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
