Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards, experienced a challenging evening at the Las Vegas Summer League on Tuesday. The 7-foot center is facing increasing scrutiny after a scoreless performance against the Portland Trail Blazers, where he went 0-of-15 from the field.
A Night to Forget
Sarr's difficulties were evident as he attempted a variety of shots, predominantly from the perimeter, with seven of those coming from beyond the arc. Sadly for the Wizards, none of them found the mark. This performance marked the most field goal attempts without a make at Summer League since 2017, adding an unwelcome footnote to Sarr's burgeoning career.
Despite his offensive woes, Sarr demonstrated some of his defensive capabilities. The young center hauled in nine rebounds, dished out three assists, and recorded three blocks. However, this was little consolation for a night where his offensive struggles took center stage.
Growing Pains
In three games at the Las Vegas Summer League, Sarr has made just 8-of-41 shots from the field, including a dismal 2-of-17 from three-point range. These statistics have prompted questions about his viability as a key player for the Wizards, especially after a selection that initially had fans brimming with excitement.
"This is what Sarr wanted. He wanted to be with the Wizards, and the Wizards wanted him," noted an unnamed source. "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."
Immediate Tasks for Development
It is clear that the Wizards' coaching staff and development team have significant work ahead of them. Enhancing Sarr's physicality and improving his shooting ability will be critical for him to fulfill his potential. Observations from his recent games indicate that he often takes shots from the perimeter and occasionally attempts runners and floaters when venturing into the paint. His shot selection will be another area of focus as he transitions from Summer League to the regular season.
One concerning moment during the game against Portland was when Donovan Clingan, the former UConn standout and the No. 7 pick in the same draft, blocked one of Sarr's moves to the rim. It was an indication that other rookies, too, are aware of Sarr's current limitations.
Patience and Potential
For Wizards fans, Sarr's journey is still in its infancy. While there are undeniable concerns, there remains hope that he can evolve into a formidable two-way player. "The Wizards wanted him," emphasized the source, highlighting that both the player and the franchise are committed to making this partnership work.
The road ahead for Alex Sarr will undoubtedly be arduous. The promise shown by his mobility and perimeter play must be augmented by increased physicality and consistent shooting. How Sarr responds to these early challenges will be closely watched, not just by the Wizards and their fans, but by the entire NBA community. Ultimately, the hope is that these initial struggles are simply the first steps in a long and successful career for the young center.