The Washington Wizards’ rookie Alex Sarr experienced a challenging night to remember in the Las Vegas Summer League, encountering a performance that will undoubtedly serve as a learning experience for the young player. Sarr recorded a historic 0-for-15 shooting performance in the Wizards' loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. The 19-year-old rookie's attempts set an unfortunate record for the most field goal attempts by a player without a single make in a Summer League game since at least 2017.
Despite the shooting woes, Sarr showcased other aspects of his game by contributing on the boards and defensively. He finished the game with 9 rebounds, dished out 3 assists, and blocked 3 shots in under 30 minutes of play. This multifaceted effort highlights his potential beyond just scoring, even on a night when his shot was not falling.
However, Sarr's shooting struggles have not been an isolated incident during his Summer League stint. Across three games, he has shot below 35% in each outing, cumulating to an overall shooting percentage of just 19.5%. This includes a dismal performance from the perimeter and the free-throw line against Portland, where he missed all seven of his three-point attempts and failed to convert both of his free throws.
Glimmers of Promise
Despite these numbers, Sarr's performance presents some encouraging signs. He is averaging 6.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, along with an impressive 3 blocks per game in the Las Vegas Summer League. His ability to protect the rim and his activity on the boards suggest a high defensive upside that the Wizards can potentially develop further.
Sarr's talent has been evident since his days with the Perth Wildcats in Western Australia, where he played last season as part of the NBL's Next Stars program. At just 19 years old, he has a lot of time to refine his game and adjust to the level of competition in the NBA. Adjustments and improvements are expected as he gains more experience against professional and highly skilled opponents.
The Path Ahead
While the current statistics may paint a bleak picture of Sarr's shooting efficiency, it's crucial to remember that the Summer League serves as a learning platform and an adjustment period for many rookies. The competition and pace are different from their previous experiences, and struggles can often precede significant growth. For Sarr, these early challenges might be the catalyst for future successes.
The Wizards organization will certainly look to harness Sarr's defensive capabilities and rebounding tenacity while working diligently with him to improve his shooting mechanics and confidence. It’s a journey of development, and the coaching staff is likely to emphasize consistency, patience, and instilling belief in his ability to convert those attempts into points.
Sarr's story underscores the unpredictability and excitement of the NBA Summer League, where emerging talents strive to showcase their skills and carve out a spot on the roster. Despite an off-night, Sarr's efforts in other areas of the game exhibit his resilience and potential, suggesting that, with time and guidance, he could evolve into a valuable asset for the Wizards. As he continues to adapt to the rigors of professional basketball, the lessons from these early experiences will be instrumental in shaping his nascent career.