4 Most Important Player Debuts at 2019 NBA Summer League
By Sean Facey
Summer League action is here, and that means it's time to get a glimpse of some young stars who could potentially shape the NBA landscape in the future. Here are four players you should keep an eye on as they make their debuts in the 2019 NBA summer league.
4. Carsen Edwards
Taken 33rd overall by the Celtics, Edwards was one of the best shooters available in the draft. He averaged 24.3 points per game in his junior year with Purdue while boasting a 35.5% three-point percentage. He'll be worth the watch to see if his shooting ability translates to the NBA. The Celtics are counting on him to give them a scoring option off the bench.
3. R.J. Barrett
To say that there's pressure on RJ Barrett to perform would be a massive understatement. After failing to draft Zion Williamson and sign Kevin Durant or Kyrie Irving, Barrett now holds the burden of the future of the Knicks on his shoulders. Making a good first impression in front of the fans will be paramount to his success in New York.
2. Zion Williamson
He was the top pick in the draft for good reason. Williamson is one of the most electric rookies in recent memory. The man is a human highlight reel, throwing down vicious dunks like it's child's play. He's the future of the New Orleans Pelicans. If you're looking for a player to entertain you, then Zion Williamson is definitely your man.
1. Michael Porter Jr.
The Denver Nuggets took a massive gamble in drafting Porter 14th overall in the 2018 NBA draft, and now they finally get to see if it paid off. Porter missed the majority of his only season in college and his first NBA season due to back surgery. A 2016-17 McDonald's All-American, he's got an incredibly high ceiling. Now it's time to see if he can reach it.