As the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Alex Sarr was expected to bring a wave of excitement and potential to the Washington Wizards. The exceptionally mobile 7-foot center, revered for his perimeter skills, is already facing scrutiny after an underwhelming Summer League performance. Despite facing early challenges, Sarr's journey is just beginning, and the Wizards' coaching staff will need to address several areas of concern to help him reach his full potential.
A Tough Night in Las Vegas
Sarr's most recent outing, a matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Las Vegas Summer League, served as a harsh reality check for both the player and his supporters. During this game, Sarr endured a brutal 0-of-15 shooting performance, marking the most field goal attempts without a make at Summer League since 2017. He struggled to find his rhythm, whether it was from the perimeter or in the paint, going 0-of-7 from beyond the arc and missing a variety of runners and floaters.
Despite the offensive woes, Sarr still contributed in other areas. He pulled down nine rebounds, dished out three assists, and recorded three blocks. While his defense and playmaking abilities showed promise, the glaring issue was his inability to score. This has been a recurring theme throughout his three games at the Summer League, where he has managed only 20 points on 8-of-41 shooting from the field and an abysmal 2-of-17 from three-point range.
Growing Pains
With such a high draft position comes lofty expectations, and Sarr's initial struggles have led to growing concerns about his viability as a key player for the Wizards. An unnamed source within the organization 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. 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."
The prevailing sentiment is that Sarr needs to become more physical to assert himself in the NBA. His slender frame, combined with a lack of muscle mass, may be contributing to his difficulty in scoring efficiently against stronger, more seasoned competition. Additionally, his shooting from beyond the arc, a critical component of his game, has been unreliable at best.
Fans' Hope and Patience
Despite the early disappointments, Wizards fans and the organization remain hopeful that Sarr will turn things around. They recognize that his journey is still in its early stages, and his potential is evident. His ability to play on the perimeter at his size is a rare talent in the NBA, and with the right development, he could become a formidable two-way player.
The Washington Wizards' coaching staff and development team will have their work cut out for them. Enhancing Sarr's physicality and shooting ability will be paramount in his growth. They will need to devise a plan that includes strength training and refining his shooting mechanics to ensure he can handle the rigors of NBA play.
Sarr's dedication to the game and willingness to improve will be crucial factors in his development. The Wizards' faith in their young center, despite the recent setbacks, suggests that they see a bright future ahead for him. As Sarr continues to adjust to the pace and physicality of the NBA, there is optimism that he will eventually meet the high expectations that come with being a top draft pick.
For now, patience and perseverance will be essential for everyone involved. The road to NBA stardom is rarely smooth, and Alex Sarr's path is no exception. However, with his unique skill set and the support of the Wizards' organization, there is hope that he will overcome these early struggles and emerge as a key player for the team.