Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr endured a challenging night in the Las Vegas Summer League, where his performance against the Portland Trail Blazers will be remembered for all the wrong reasons. In an unexpected turn, Sarr recorded an unprecedented 0 of 15 shooting performance, marking the most field goal attempts by a player without a single make in a Summer League game since at least 2017.
Despite his struggles from the field, Sarr was not entirely ineffective. He contributed across other facets of the game, finishing with 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks in a little under 30 minutes of play. His defensive efforts, though notable, couldn't overshadow the historic inefficiency on offense.
A Night to Forget
In a game where every shot seemed to miss its mark, Sarr's shooting woes extended beyond the arc and the free-throw line. The 19-year-old missed all seven of his attempts from three-point range and both of his free throws. This compounded his struggles and added pressure as the game progressed.
This dismal performance was not an isolated incident for Sarr. Over the course of three Summer League games, his shooting percentages have consistently remained below 35%. Currently, he is shooting a paltry 19.5% from the field, significantly below what the Wizards would have hoped for from their rookie prospect.
Broader Performance Metrics
While his shooting has been subpar, Sarr is averaging 6.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game in the Summer League, demonstrating his capability to contribute in other areas. Moreover, his defensive prowess has been evident, averaging 3 blocks per game in Las Vegas. These statistics reflect a well-rounded potential that needs refinement, particularly in offensive execution.
Background and Future Prospects
Sarr's transition from the NBL to the NBA has likely played a role in his current performance fluctuations. Last season, he was part of the Perth Wildcats in Western Australia under the NBL's Next Stars program. The move to a more competitive and faster-paced environment in the NBA naturally brings adjustment challenges. At just 19 years old, Sarr’s young age and inexperience at this level are factors that may require him to adapt and develop over time.
Despite the disappointing shooting display, the Washington Wizards and their fans are likely to remain patient with Sarr. His effectiveness in rebounding and defense indicates that he possesses foundational skills necessary for growth. Future games will provide him additional opportunities to refine his offensive game and prove that his shooting slump was just a temporary setback.
As the Summer League progresses, Sarr and his coaches will undoubtedly review game footage to identify areas for improvement and to instill greater confidence in his shooting capabilities. While the road ahead may present its challenges, the Wizards’ investment in Sarr reflects their belief in his potential to develop into a more consistent and impactful player.
For now, though, Alex Sarr’s historic night for all the wrong reasons serves as a learning experience. His resilience and how he bounces back in subsequent games could set the tone for his rookie season and beyond.