One might expect the high-end draft picks to dominate the NBA Summer League, and while that is often the case, it is not as easy as that.
Yes, the League is meant to develop the recent draft picks, but it’s also a chance for guys trying to make rosters to compete for that opportunity in a game-like atmosphere. Meaning, you will often see games end up in the 70s and 80s or even less in terms of points because the games do get to be that competitive and every possession matters.
So, a guy like Brandon Miller could struggle in the Summer League because he knows, as the No. 2 pick in this past draft, that his roster spot is secure.
The high level of competition makes for a great opportunity to see what a player is really made of and is the first time you get to see them in an NBA-level atmosphere at the speed of the NBA game.
The first two games for the former Alabama PF were good, but he didn’t blow people with his performances as he averaged 13 points, 9.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists across the two games. However, it was his ineffectiveness from the field that was cause for concern as he shot 9-33 and 3-17 from three.
On Tuesday night, Miller finally broke through as he went for 26 points, six rebounds and two assists against the Trail Blazers.