Washington Wizards' Alex Sarr Faces Early Challenges in Summer League
Alex Sarr, selected as the No. 2 overall pick by the Washington Wizards in the 2024 NBA Draft, has encountered significant obstacles in his early days with the team. Known for his exceptional mobility and versatility as a 7-foot center, Sarr's initial performances at the Las Vegas Summer League have left fans and analysts questioning his readiness for the big stage.
In Tuesday's game against the Portland Trail Blazers, Sarr's struggles on the court were evident. He went scoreless, missing all 15 of his field goal attempts. This unfortunate performance set a record for the most field goal attempts without a make in the Summer League since 2017. It wasn't for lack of effort; Sarr attempted a variety of shots, including perimeter shots and ventures into the paint that featured runners and floaters. Despite his rigorous attempts, none found the mark.
Sarr's shooting woes extended beyond this game. In three games at the Las Vegas Summer League, he has scored a total of 20 points, hitting just 8 of his 41 shots from the field. His three-point shooting has also been a concern, sinking only 2 of his 17 attempts from beyond the arc. The Wizards coaching staff and development team recognize the need to enhance Sarr's physicality and shooting ability to help him meet the demands of the professional stage.
While his shooting has been underwhelming, Sarr has shown glimpses of his potential in other areas of the game. Against Portland, he managed to pull down nine rebounds, dish out three assists, and record three blocks, highlighting his defensive capabilities and willingness to contribute in multifaceted roles.
The game also featured a noteworthy matchup against Donovan Clingan, the former UConn standout and the No. 7 overall pick, who underscored Sarr’s need for physical development. Clingan successfully blocked one of Sarr’s moves to the rim, illustrating the level of competition and physicality Sarr needs to adapt to as he progresses.
Despite the early-season setbacks, Sarr’s potential remains a hot topic. "This is what Sarr wanted. He wanted to be with the Wizards, and the Wizards wanted him," remarked an unnamed source. "Many thought he was the best prospect in this draft because he's an exceptionally mobile 7-footer who can play on the perimeter. But 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."
Indeed, the concern about Sarr's physicality is not unwarranted. His lanky frame has sparked discussions about how adding muscle could better equip him for the rigors of NBA play. There is optimism that, with the right training regimen and support from the Wizards' development team, Sarr can build a stronger physique that complements his unique skill set.
The Wizards and their fans are hopeful that these early struggles are merely growing pains and that Sarr will eventually find his stride. His journey with the Wizards is still in its infancy, and there remains a belief that he can evolve into a formidable two-way player.
Despite the mounting concerns, the potential upside of Alex Sarr cannot be overlooked. His ability to move swiftly for someone of his height, combined with his perimeter skills, offers a versatility that is rare in the NBA. If he can overcome his current shooting challenges and add the necessary muscle mass, Sarr could very well justify the high expectations placed upon him.
The journey ahead for Sarr will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike. The initial excitement surrounding his draft selection has given way to cautious optimism as everyone waits to see how this talented young player adapts to the demands of the NBA. With dedication, training, and a bit of patience, Sarr has the opportunity to turn early doubts into future triumphs.