The 2025 NBA Summer League showcased a thrilling blend of emerging draft prospects, rising fantasy stars, and under-the-radar players. The opening game of the book offers an analysis of standout players and a comprehensive look at the overall format.
Draftable Players in 2025 Summer League
Cooper Flagg – Forward, Dallas Mavericks
Flagg demonstrated his NBA readiness by confidently taking on point guard responsibilities, impressing with his composure and playmaking abilities. His versatility makes him a valuable fantasy asset and a likely pick before the fifth round in this year’s draft.
Alex Sarr – Forward/Center, Washington Wizards
Sarr’s rim protection and agility were notable, setting a Vegas Summer League record with 8 blocks in a game and shooting a strong 48% from the field across two games. While still developing offensively, he is forecasted to be a top 100 pick as he solidifies his role as a dependable shot blocker.
Isaiah Collier – Guard, Utah Jazz
Utah’s starting point guard in Vegas performed as anticipated, averaging 12 points, 5 rebounds, and 8 assists per game over three games. Despite some inconsistency in efficiency, he offers a budget-friendly option for teams needing playmaking support.
Matas Buzelis – Forward, Chicago Bulls
Buzelis showed improved physicality compared to last year, averaging 2.5 steals and making 20 free throws over two games. If this progress continues into his second NBA season, it could significantly enhance his scoring capabilities.
Jaylen Wells – Forward, Memphis Grizzlies
Wells stepped up when needed, averaging 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 three-pointers, and 1.5 steals per game. With at least 30 minutes of playing time, he could become a valuable fantasy pick in deep redraft leagues.
Players Impressing but Not Yet Draftable
Kyle Filipowski – Forward, Utah Jazz
Filipowski earned a spot on the Summer League all-team and is a contender for MVP, averaging 29.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 3.3 three-pointers across three games, drawing comparisons to Lauri Markkanen.
Terrance Shannon Jr. – Forward, Minnesota Timberwolves
Having gained some NBA minutes during the Wolves’ playoff run, Shannon dominated in Vegas, averaging 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists in two games.
Rob Dillingham – Guard, Minnesota Timberwolves
Known for his scoring, Dillingham impressed as a distributor, averaging 7.5 assists while maintaining low turnovers—a crucial role behind veteran PG Mike Conley.
Kyshawn George – Forward, Washington Wizards
The Wizards are testing George as a point guard, pushing him closer to draftable status, but it remains a wait-and-see situation during the offseason.
Tre Johnson – Guard, Washington Wizards
Johnson emerged as the Wizards’ natural scorer, potentially becoming a fantasy option off the waiver wire by midseason.
Other players who made an impression include Reed Shepherd (Guard, Rockets), Ryan Dunn (Forward, Suns), and Oso Igodaro (Center, Suns).
Players with Dynasty League Potential
Liam McNeeley – Guard, Charlotte Hornets
A late first-round pick, McNeeley was the Hornets’ most consistent player, surprising with his strong rebounding (8.5 per game) alongside his shooting prowess.
Nique Clifford – Guard, Sacramento Kings
Despite a veteran-heavy Kings locker room that might limit his immediate impact, Clifford showed multi-category fantasy value with averages of 18.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 2.3 three-pointers, and 2 steals per game.
Jaylon Tyson – Guard/Forward, Cleveland Cavaliers
The 24th pick in the 2024 draft looked too advanced for Summer League, aiding Cleveland to a 2-1 record with an average of 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists. He shined with a 20-point, 12-assist double-double against the Pacers but needs to work on his shot selection.
Other notable dynasty prospects include Derrick Queen (Forward/Center, Pelicans), Joan Bellinger (Center, Timberwolves), Ron Holland (Forward, Pistons), Danis Jenkins (Guard, Pistons), Kevin McCullar Jr. (Forward, Knicks), and Bronny James (Guard, Lakers).
Fan Take:
This Summer League preview is crucial for basketball fans as it highlights the next wave of talent ready to impact the NBA and fantasy leagues alike. Keeping an eye on these players not only fuels excitement for upcoming seasons but also offers strategic insight for building future dream teams.
