The Los Angeles Lakers step into the Las Vegas Summer League with a weight of expectation on their shoulders, particularly with all eyes fixed on a second-round rookie. After going 0-3 in the California Classic, with their most recent defeat being an 80-76 loss to the Miami Heat after surrendering an 11-0 run, the purple and gold are looking to bounce back in Sin City.
Despite the setbacks, there have been some standout performers showcasing their potential in crucial areas. These players will be under scrutiny as the Lakers gear up for a series of games in Las Vegas.
Most Lakers fans will be eagerly following the progress of the team’s two drafted rookies—Dalton Knecht and Bronny James—who have displayed flashes of brilliance mixed with instances of struggle in the initial games.
While Bronny James has faced criticism for his lack of scoring output, averaging 3.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, he has proven himself as a solid defensive presence. Leading the team in steals at 1.5 per game, he has showcased his defensive prowess both on the perimeter and in the paint.
Moving on to the Lakers’ Vegas Summer League opponents, two players to keep an eye on are Colin Castleton and Blake Hinson, both on two-way contracts. Castleton’s standout performance against the Heat included 18 points, 11 rebounds, four blocks, three steals, and two assists. Leading the team in rebounds with 10.3 per game, he is also putting up 13 points per game on 46% shooting. Hinson, an undrafted rookie, made a strong impression in his debut with 17 points on 5/7 shooting from beyond the arc, proving his reputation as one of the top shooters in his class. However, Hinson struggled in the subsequent games, shooting poorly from three-point range.
The Lakers’ journey in Vegas kicks off with a matchup against the Houston Rockets, featuring 2023 Summer League MVP Cam Whitmore and this year’s third overall pick, Reed Sheppard. These two players are pivotal to the Rockets’ lineup and will be aiming to make their mark in the Summer League. In addition to facing Whitmore and Sheppard, the Lakers will also have to contend with AJ Griffin, a 2022 first-round pick acquired from the Hawks in a draft night trade.
With a mix of seasoned players and rookies looking to prove themselves, the Lakers will need to bring their A-game as they navigate through the challenges of the Las Vegas Summer League. Stay tuned as the action unfolds on the court, showcasing the future stars of the NBA.
