In the 2024 NBA Draft, the Washington Wizards selected Alex Sarr with the No. 2 overall pick, a move that was initially met with excitement from the team's fanbase. Heralded for his remarkable mobility as a 7-foot center capable of playing on the perimeter, Sarr's potential seems sky-high. Unfortunately, his performance in the Las Vegas Summer League has raised concerns, particularly after a troubling game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday.
A Night to Forget
Sarr's outing under the bright Las Vegas lights was one that most athletes would like to erase from memory. The 7-footer went scoreless, with a dismal 0-of-15 shooting performance. This effort marked the most field goal attempts without a make at Summer League since 2017, casting a shadow over the promising start to his NBA career.
Sarr's attempts consisted mainly of perimeter shots, including seven attempts from beyond the arc. Despite his versatility, the shots simply wouldn't fall. His offensive struggles extended to the paint as well, where he attempted runners and floaters, only to be thwarted by defenders, including a notable block by the former UConn standout and No. 7 pick, Donovan Clingan.
Silver Linings
While Sarr's shooting woes were evident, it wasn't all doom and gloom. He showcased other facets of his game that hold promise for the future. Sarr pulled down nine rebounds, dished out three assists, and recorded three blocks in the game. His defensive contributions and playmaking abilities didn't go unnoticed, offering a glimmer of what he could bring to the Wizards.
Over three games in the Las Vegas Summer League, Sarr has scored 20 points on 8-of-41 shooting from the field and made 2-of-17 attempts from three-point range.
The Weight of Expectations
The struggles have already stirred conversations around Sarr's readiness for the NBA. "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," an unnamed source said. "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."
Indeed, Sarr's slim frame has led to concerns about his ability to endure the rigors of NBA competition. The Wizards' coaching staff and development team face the challenge of enhancing Sarr's physicality and shooting ability to match his potential.
Hope and Optimism
Despite the early concerns, it's essential to remember that Sarr's journey in the NBA is still in its infancy. The Wizards and their fans hold onto the hope that with time, proper training, and development, Sarr can transcend these initial struggles. His skill set, characterized by mobility and versatility, remains an asset that, if honed, could make him a formidable two-way player.
The coming months will be crucial for Sarr and the Wizards as they work to address his physical and technical shortcomings. His ability to stretch the floor as a 7-footer adds another layer of intrigue to his development. If he can find consistency in his shooting and add the necessary muscle, the concerns of today may soon be forgotten, replaced by the realization of his potential and the impact he can make in the league.
For now, the Wizards and their fans watch with a mix of patience and anticipation, hoping to see glimpses of the player they believe Sarr can become. His early stumbles might just be the prelude to a story of resilience and growth. Only time will tell if Sarr can rise to the occasion and solidify his place as a cornerstone of the Washington Wizards’ future.