In the wake of the 2024 NBA Draft, expectations soared for Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick by the Washington Wizards. The towering 7-foot center brought with him a reputation as an exceptionally mobile player who could operate on the perimeter, a skill set that intrigued both the franchise and its fanbase. However, his recent performances at the Las Vegas Summer League have sparked some concerns.
On Tuesday, Sarr faced the Portland Trail Blazers and struggled mightily. The highly-touted rookie endured one of the toughest nights of his young career, producing a scoreless game with an 0-of-15 shooting performance. It was a night to forget, marking the most field goal attempts without a single make at Summer League since 2017.
Shooting Woes
Breaking down Sarr's shot selection reveals an array of attempts, mainly from the perimeter. Despite taking seven shots from beyond the arc, he failed to convert any of them. Additionally, his ventures into the paint, which included runners and floaters, were thwarted, one notably blocked by Donovan Clingan, the former UConn standout and the No. 7 pick in the same draft.
This wasn't just an isolated incident; Sarr's shooting troubles have been a theme throughout the Summer League. Over three games, he has managed to score only 20 points on an 8-of-41 shooting clip from the field. His long-range accuracy has been even more concerning, hitting just 2-of-17 from three-point territory.
Other Contributions and Future Prospects
Despite his offensive struggles, Sarr did contribute in other facets of the game. He pulled down nine rebounds, dished out three assists, and recorded three blocks against the Trail Blazers. His versatility and mobility, especially for a 7-footer, offer a glimpse into the potential that had many touting him as one of the best prospects in the draft.
Yet, his shooting woes and lack of physicality have dampened some of the initial excitement. Sarr himself has acknowledged the need to bulk up, an observation echoed by analysts and fans alike. One unnamed source elaborated: "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."
Fan Reactions and Team Strategies
Fans' initial enthusiasm has understandably given way to concerns. The question on everyone's mind is whether Sarr can develop into a key player for the Wizards. His current struggles have led some to voice doubts about his viability as a cornerstone for the team. Despite this, the Wizards' coaching staff remains optimistic, focusing on Sarr's development in both physicality and shooting.
"The Washington Wizards' coaching staff and development team will undoubtedly play a crucial role in Sarr's progression. Enhancing his physicality and shooting capabilities will be focal points moving forward. It's still early days, and there’s a collective hope among fans and the franchise that Sarr can turn things around to become a formidable two-way player."
In sum, Alex Sarr's journey with the Washington Wizards is only just beginning. While his Summer League performances have provided a reality check, they also offer a roadmap for the improvements needed. With committed coaching and diligent personal effort, Sarr has the potential to meet and perhaps even exceed the high expectations set for him. As the Wizards and their fans continue to support him, the hope remains that he can evolve into the player many believe he can be.