In a landscape where first impressions frequently dictate the narrative, Alex Sarr's debut at the Las Vegas Summer League is already generating waves—though perhaps not the ones he had hoped for. Selected as the No. 2 overall pick by the Washington Wizards in the 2024 NBA Draft, Sarr’s early performances have left fans teetering between optimism and concern.
A Rough Start
Sarr's struggles were most visible in a recent matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers. The 7-foot center endured a scoreless, 0-of-15 shooting night. This performance set a dubious record, marking the most field goal attempts without a make at Summer League since 2017. Sarr's shot selection was varied; he took several perimeter shots, seven of which were three-point attempts. None found their mark. Even when he ventured into the paint, runners and floaters failed him, with a key block by Donovan Clingan, the former UConn standout and the No. 7 pick, capping off a frustrating evening.
Despite his scoring woes, Sarr did contribute in other areas. He managed to pull down nine rebounds, dished out three assists, and recorded three blocks. These efforts, while noteworthy, did little to silence the murmurs about his shooting capabilities and overall readiness for the NBA's physical demands.
The Weight of Expectation
From the outset, the selection of Sarr by the Wizards was met with excitement. An exceptionally mobile 7-footer capable of playing on the perimeter is a tantalizing prospect in today's game. As one unnamed source noted, "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."
However, the same source also highlighted concerns that have become increasingly evident. "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."
Early Indicators
Sarr’s shooting struggles aren’t limited to a single game. Across three games at the Summer League, he has scored just 20 points on 8-of-41 shooting from the field, making a mere 2-of-17 from beyond the arc. His early stats enhance the argument that while his mobility and size are exceptional, his shooting remains a significant area for development.
Critics and fans alike have already begun voicing their concerns, questioning whether Sarr can evolve into the key player the Wizards envisioned when they picked him second overall. The calls for Sarr to bulk up and improve his shooting are growing louder, even at this nascent stage of his career.
Development and Hope
The onus is now on the Wizards' coaching staff and development team to maximize Sarr's potential. His journey with the Wizards has only just begun, and it will be crucial for the team to enhance his physicality and refine his shooting. There is an undeniable upside to his game. His ability to play on the perimeter as a 7-footer is rare. If he can add muscle and improve his three-point shooting, he has the potential to be a formidable two-way player.
Washington's fans, for their part, are holding out hope. Initial excitement has given way to a cautious optimism that Sarr will turn things around. The glimpses of defensive prowess—his nine rebounds, three assists, and three blocks against the Trail Blazers—suggest there is a foundation to build upon. For now, patience will be key as the Wizards and their fans track Sarr’s development through the ups and downs of his rookie season.
In a league where the margin between potential and performance can be razor-thin, Alex Sarr's early career will be a compelling storyline to follow. The promise is evident, but the journey to fulfilling that promise is underway, fraught with challenges that must be met head-on.