A Night to Forget for Wizards’ Rookie Alex Sarr in Las Vegas Summer League
Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr had what can only be described as a night to forget during the Las Vegas Summer League. The young forward, just 19 years old, endured a historic performance that saw him miss all 15 of his field goal attempts in a disappointing loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. This dubious feat marked the most field goal attempts by a player without a single make in a Summer League game since at least 2017.
Despite the woeful shooting display, Sarr managed to contribute in other areas of the game. In less than 30 minutes on the court, he accumulated 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks. While these numbers highlight Sarr's ability to impact the game beyond scoring, his shooting woes have become a troubling trend over the course of the Summer League.
Consistency has eluded Sarr throughout his three Summer League appearances. The rookie has shot below 35% in each of his outings, resulting in an overall field goal percentage of just 19.5%. Additionally, he is averaging 6.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, along with an impressive 3 blocks per contest, showcasing his defensive prowess.
The game against the Trail Blazers further highlighted Sarr's offensive struggles. He missed all seven of his three-point attempts and both of his free throws, compounding his frustrations on the offensive end. Such performances can be disheartening, especially for a young player trying to make his mark in the NBA.
Before joining the Wizards, Sarr played for the Perth Wildcats in Western Australia as part of the NBL's Next Stars program. This initiative is designed to develop international talent, and Sarr's time in the program was seen as a crucial step in his development. Despite the rough start in the Summer League, the Wizards and their fans hope that his experience in Australia will serve him well as he adjusts to the higher level of competition in the NBA.
While Sarr's shooting performance is certainly a concern, it is essential to remember that Summer League games primarily serve as developmental opportunities for young players. The emphasis is on growth and adaptation rather than immediate success. Wizards' coaching staff will undoubtedly work closely with Sarr to improve his shooting mechanics and confidence as he prepares for the regular season.
The path to NBA success is rarely smooth, and Alex Sarr's early struggles are part of the journey. The Wizards and their fans will continue to support the young forward as he navigates the challenges of transitioning to the world's premier basketball league. For Sarr, the key will be focusing on his all-around contributions and steadily improving his offensive game to complement his evident defensive talents.