The NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas is often viewed as a mere offseason exhibition, a brief showcase for recent draft picks and fringe players. Yet, for the discerning eye, it transforms into a pivotal proving ground – a crystal ball offering tantalizing glimpses into the future landscape of professional basketball. Beyond the rudimentary box scores and televised highlights, attending in person provides an unfiltered perspective, capturing the nuanced movements, the competitive fire, and the sheer `feeling` of a player`s presence. This unique environment allows for a meticulous assessment of which young talents are poised to elevate their game and, crucially, their fantasy basketball value in the immediate season ahead.
This year`s Summer League did not disappoint, unveiling a cohort of rookies ready to defy expectations and sophomores prepared to solidify their nascent NBA careers. The observations gleaned from the Las Vegas courts offer compelling insights into who might truly make a difference when the regular season commences.
Rookies on the Horizon: A Glimpse into Immediate Impact
Cooper Flagg: The Maverick`s New Frontier
From the moment Cooper Flagg stepped onto the court for the Dallas Mavericks, a palpable shift occurred in the arena. It was more than just a debut; it was an affirmation. His audacious power-step dunk attempt against a crowded Lakers defense, a moment that literally brought conversations to a halt and caused a collective intake of breath, encapsulated the undeniable `it` factor often spoken of but rarely seen. Beyond the theatrical, Flagg`s two-game performance demonstrated a profound skill level. His strong all-around game in the first outing, followed by a masterful 31-point scoring display in the second, revealed a versatility that belies his rookie status. Physically, Flagg appeared more robust than anticipated, an attribute critical for adapting to the NBA`s physicality. For a player heralded as a Rookie of the Year frontrunner even before the draft, his Summer League showing served as a resounding endorsement. Barring unforeseen setbacks, Flagg is poised for a significant rookie season, and fantasy managers would be wise to consider him a conservative fourth-round pick.
Dylan Harper: San Antonio`s Quiet Dominator
In the two decades of observing the Las Vegas Summer League, few performances have resonated as strongly as Dylan Harper`s for the San Antonio Spurs, drawing an almost uncanny parallel to Brandon Roy`s impactful 2006 showing. Harper, a tall, fluid guard, commanded the court with an understated authority, never appearing rushed yet consistently dictating play. His ability to penetrate the paint at will, whether through screens or sheer individual skill, coupled with the explosiveness to finish or draw fouls, was a masterclass in efficiency. His adeptness at collapsing defenses before distributing to open teammates showcased an advanced court vision. Perhaps the most memorable moment was his sensational, near-acrobatic block on a fast break, a testament to his two-way impact. Despite the Spurs` considerable depth at guard with All-Star De`Aaron Fox and reigning Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, Harper`s exceptional readiness suggests that if minutes materialize, he possesses the game to quickly ascend in both Rookie of the Year discussions and fantasy rankings. His Summer League display answered the critical question: he is indeed ready.
Tre Johnson: Wizards` Sharpshooting Architect
While top picks like VJ Edgecombe and Ace Bailey sat out the Summer League, the Washington Wizards` No. 6 pick, Tre Johnson, made his presence felt emphatically. Dubbed the best overall 3-point shooter in his draft class by ESPN`s Jay Bilas, Johnson lived up to the hype, showcasing his ability to hit volume threes with accuracy, both off the dribble and in catch-and-shoot situations. His comfort in operating as a primary ball-handler, creating his own shot in the halfcourt, and even pulling up for quick triples in transition, underscored his immediate scoring potential. For a Wizards team firmly entrenched in a rebuilding phase, having shed key veteran scorers, Johnson`s fit is impeccable. He aligns perfectly with their long-term vision and appears set to command significant minutes from day one. His performance in Vegas solidifies his position as a legitimate contender in the Rookie of the Year race and a high-priority target for fantasy basketball enthusiasts.
Sophomore Surge: Building on Early Promises
Alex Sarr: Washington`s Defensive Anchor Evolves
After a respectable rookie season that perhaps belied his quiet Summer League debut a year prior, Washington Wizards center Alex Sarr delivered one of this year`s most striking performances. His Sunday game was a defensive masterpiece; Sarr seemed ubiquitous, blocking shots with astonishing regularity. The box score confirmed the visual evidence: 16 points, 12 rebounds, and a staggering eight blocks, just shy of a triple-double. Sarr`s elite athleticism translates seamlessly into rim protection and rebounding, and his continued development of a reliable 3-point shot adds a crucial dimension to his offensive game. As the undisputed starting-caliber center on a youthful Wizards squad, Sarr is slated to be a cornerstone. Expect him to build significantly on his rookie campaign, delivering a robust sophomore season that will be highly relevant for fantasy hoops.
Reed Sheppard: Houston`s All-Around Contributor
Hailed as the premier shooter of the 2024 draft class, Reed Sheppard impressed as a rookie in last year`s Summer League, only to find minutes scarce on a perimeter-heavy Houston Rockets roster. This offseason, however, has cleared the path. With Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and Cam Whitmore moved, Sheppard`s opportunity has arrived. While his shot surprisingly faltered somewhat in Vegas this season (favoring volume over his usual marksmanship), his overall dominance was undeniable. In just two games before being rested, he tallied 46 points, 11 rebounds, and a remarkable eight steals – a truly “too good for summer league” display. Sheppard`s demonstrated talent for filling the stat sheet across categories positions him for a significant role, likely as the Rockets` primary sixth man. His all-around fantasy potential is now squarely in focus.
Ronald Holland II: Detroit`s Versatile Wing Takes Flight
As the No. 5 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Ronald Holland II garnered substantial experience as a rookie, playing in 81 regular season games and even seeing playoff minutes. This extensive exposure made the Summer League game appear almost effortless for him. In his debut, he was omnipresent, scoring at will with remarkable efficiency (28 points on just 12 field-goal attempts, complemented by 13 free-throw attempts and a sharp 4-for-5 from deep). Holland also dominated the boards, utilizing superior physicality and quickness to grab 11 rebounds. His subsequent game further showcased his defensive prowess with six steals in 33 minutes. Holland possesses a sophisticated offensive repertoire, creating off the dribble and scoring effectively at all three levels. His strong defensive and rebounding contributions make him an integral part of the young Detroit Pistons. While a starting role remains uncertain, securing legitimate sixth-man minutes could propel Holland into significant fantasy relevance in his sophomore year.
Minnesota`s Backcourt Brilliance: Dillingham and Shannon Jr.
The Minnesota Timberwolves` backcourt prospects, Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr., both demonstrated marked improvement. Dillingham, who struggled to find his rhythm as a rookie point guard, now appears much more comfortable, with the professional game visibly “slowing down” for him. His seamless transition between floor general and offensive threat was a revelation. A 15-point, seven-assist performance, followed by an even more impressive 23-point, seven-assist, seven-rebound outing, signals major strides. As Mike Conley ages, Dillingham`s development into the Timberwolves` lead guard of the future, and a crucial secondary playmaker alongside Anthony Edwards, is vital. Expect a notable sophomore leap from him. His teammate, Terrence Shannon Jr., was arguably the most impactful player for the Timberwolves in Summer League. His aggressive drives and decisive finishing led to three consecutive 20-point games, complemented by strong rebounding and playmaking. Drafted 27th in 2024, Shannon was once considered lottery talent before a legal issue that was subsequently resolved. With Nickeil Alexander-Walker`s departure, Shannon is poised for an expanded sophomore role, making him another strong candidate for fantasy respectability.
Kyle Filipowski: Utah`s Forward Ascent
From his very first Summer League game as a sophomore, Kyle Filipowski for the Utah Jazz looked distinctly “too good for summer league.” Despite early foul trouble, his commanding performance—32 points, six rebounds, five assists, and a blocked shot—was just the beginning. Filipowski maintained this dominant form throughout the league, with subsequent outings of 21 points and six boards, and a colossal 35 points with 11 rebounds. His rookie season was solid (averaging 9.6 PPG, 6.1 RPG on 50.2 FG% in 21.1 MPG), but the Jazz`s decision to trade starting power forward John Collins signals a significantly increased role for Filipowski. Given his consistent dominance in Vegas and the clear path to more minutes, Filipowski possesses legitimate, high-upside fantasy potential as a second-year player.
Beyond the Main Stage: Other Noteworthy Performances
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Yang Hansen: Trail Blazers` Passing Prodigy
The Trail Blazers` No. 16 pick, center Yang Hansen, commanded attention both from the crowd and with his play. He opened his debut by winning the tip, then audaciously called out a play, which he executed perfectly with a precise bounce-pass to a cutting teammate. He followed this with another spectacular dime, establishing himself as one of the draft`s elite passing big men. While he`s currently behind last year`s lottery pick Donovan Clingan on the depth chart, Yang`s potential, particularly his exceptional passing, makes him a player to monitor closely as his rookie role unfolds. -
Liam McNeeley: Charlotte`s Hidden Gem
Though the focus was on No. 4 pick Kon Knueppel for the Charlotte Hornets, it was the No. 29 pick, Liam McNeeley, who truly captivated. His impressive outing of 22 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, and three 3-pointers showcased a broad skill set. Despite being sidelined early with Achilles tendonitis, McNeeley looked strong. While his path to minutes this season is an uphill battle given the Hornets` roster, his Vegas performances suggest a talent worth keeping a vigilant eye on. Knueppel, despite a slow start, did improve as the league progressed and might have a more direct route to meaningful minutes as a shooter. -
Walter Clayton Jr.: Jazz`s Sharpshooting Spark
The No. 18 pick and Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA tournament, Walter Clayton Jr. of the Jazz, was unfortunately limited to just one Summer League game due to a hamstring injury. However, in that single outing against Charlotte, he unequivocally demonstrated the shooting prowess that earned him his draft selection. Knocking down four 3-pointers en route to 21 points and grabbing six rebounds, Clayton provided a tantalizing glimpse of his capabilities. Playing for a very young, rebuilding Jazz team, Clayton could rapidly carve out an important role from the season`s outset, provided he maintains his health.
The Summer League, far from being a mere exhibition, serves as an indispensable laboratory for talent evaluation. The performances witnessed in Las Vegas offer reliable indicators of a player`s readiness, growth, and potential impact on the grander NBA stage. As these young athletes transition from promising prospects to professional contributors, the foundations laid in the Summer League will undoubtedly shape their journeys, making the upcoming NBA season all the more compelling for fans and fantasy managers alike.
