Southwest Division Summer League Recap: Reed Sheppard Shines and Pelicans' Future Center?
Watch the full episode here: Southwest Division Summer League Prospect Recap
In this episode of the Locked On Fantasy Basketball podcast, we break down the performances of the Southwest Division's top prospects during the NBA Summer League. Here’s a snapshot of what went down:
Key Highlights:
Reed Sheppard: Is he the new number one prospect? Reed Sheppard was outstanding and might be vying for that top spot in the draft.
Memphis Standouts: GG Jackson and Zach Edey both had notable performances. Stephon Castle also showed promise, raising questions about his future role.
Pelicans’ Starting Center?: Did we catch a glimpse of the Pelicans' future starting center during Summer League?
In-Depth Look:
Reed Sheppard:
Sheppard was a standout, averaging 20 points per game and showcasing his defensive prowess with almost three steals and 1.3 blocks per game. His shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, needs improvement (28% from three), but his overall game, including his passing and defensive skills, was impressive. Despite being mismanaged at Kentucky, his Summer League performance firmly places him in the conversation for the number one draft prospect.
GG Jackson (Memphis):
Jackson averaged 20 points, 2.5 threes, and 6.9 steals per game. His shooting was inconsistent, but his usage rate of 28% shows he was a focal point for the team. However, with a stacked Memphis roster, his immediate impact might be limited.
Zach Edey (Memphis):
Edey played limited minutes but made an impact with 10 points, 9 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game. His role in the regular season remains uncertain, but he showed potential to be a solid contributor.
Stephon Castle (San Antonio):
Castle had a solid performance, though his shooting percentages were concerning. He averaged 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists per game with a usage rate of 34%. His defensive potential and playmaking ability were on display, but questions about his shooting remain.
Pelicans' Center Situation:
The Pelicans might have found their future starting center in Karlo Matković. Matković averaged 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. He outperformed first-round pick Efe Abogidi, who struggled offensively. With the Pelicans' need for a reliable center, Matković could see significant minutes in the regular season.
Conclusion:
The Southwest Division showcased some intriguing talents during the Summer League. While players like Reed Sheppard and GG Jackson stood out, the Pelicans' center situation remains one to watch closely. For a detailed analysis and more insights, check out the full episode on YouTube: Southwest Division Summer League Prospect Recap.