In a highly anticipated NBA Summer League match-up, the Washington Wizards' No. 2 overall pick, Alex Sarr, faced substantial criticism after a dismal shooting performance against the Portland Trail Blazers. The 7-foot center, who has been touted for his exceptional mobility and perimeter play, struggled to find his rhythm, raising concerns among fans and analysts alike.
Skewed Shooting
Sarr's performance was a statistical anomaly, marking the most field goal attempts without a make at the Summer League since 2017. He went 0-of-15 from the field, missing all seven of his three-point attempts. Despite his persistence, he could not convert, even with a varied array of shots, including runners and floaters in the paint. The lack of success on the offensive end has led many to question his shooting capabilities, especially from beyond the arc.
In the words of an unnamed source, "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."
A Rough Outing
Not only did Sarr fail to score, but his offensive misfires were also compounded by an aggressive defensive play by Donovan Clingan, the former UConn standout and No. 7 pick, who blocked one of Sarr’s drives to the rim. Despite this, Sarr still managed to contribute in other areas, pulling down nine rebounds, dishing out three assists, and recording three blocks.
His early Summer League statistics paint a broader picture of his current struggles. Across three games, Sarr has tallied just 20 points on a woeful 8-of-41 shooting from the field. His three-point shooting has been particularly concerning, hitting only 2-of-17 attempts. It's clear that while Sarr possesses the physical attributes to be a unique talent, his ability to convert those gifts into effective play is still a work in progress.
Hope for Development
The significant investment the Wizards made in selecting Sarr has sparked both excitement and apprehension among fans. Initially, his selection was met with optimism, as Sarr's mobility and perimeter skills set him apart as a top prospect. However, the recent performances have fans voicing concerns about his viability as a key player for the Wizards.
"This is what Sarr wanted. He wanted to be with the Wizards, and the Wizards wanted him," the unnamed source added. "Many thought he was the best prospect in this draft because he’s an exceptionally mobile 7-footer who can play on the perimeter."
The Wizards' coaching staff and development team now face the critical task of enhancing Sarr's physicality and shooting abilities. Adding 20-plus pounds of muscle is seen as essential for Sarr to withstand the physical demands of the NBA and execute his game plan effectively on the court. Improving his accuracy from three-point range will also be a focal point, considering the modern game's emphasis on perimeter shooting.
Patience and Potential
It's important to remember that Sarr’s journey with the Wizards is still in its early stages. Developing a raw but talented player like Sarr requires time, dedication, and a structured development plan. The potential is undeniably there, and if properly harnessed, Sarr could transform into a formidable two-way player.
The Wizards' fans, while rightfully concerned at this juncture, hold hope that with the right guidance and a rigorous physical conditioning and shooting development program, Sarr can overcome his early struggles. His ability to contribute defensively and on the boards, as evidenced by his rebounds and blocks, signals that his game has multiple dimensions waiting to be unlocked.
As the Summer League progresses and the regular season looms, Alex Sarr's advancement will undoubtedly be under close scrutiny. Whether he lives up to his draft position and potential remains a storyline to watch keenly. For now, the Wizards and their fans will remain cautiously optimistic, banking on the promise that this exceptionally mobile 7-footer can indeed turn things around.