The NBA Summer League is a time for overreactions and underreactions, and it's easy to get caught up in the hype or the disappointment. Here's a look at some of the most notable overreactions from this year's Summer League, focusing on the Lakers, Warriors, Bulls, and more.
Darryn Peterson: The Point Guard Dilemma
Darryn Peterson, a former high school phenom, has been a mystery box since entering the college ranks. His physical tools and rim-running ability were on full display at Prolific Prep, but a series of injuries and a shift in playing style have left some questioning his role in the NBA. Peterson's three-point rate dropped significantly from his college days, and his turnovers outpaced his assists in Summer League. While he may not be a traditional point guard, his ability to run around screens and maximize his three-point rate could be a valuable asset for a team like the Jazz, who already have a solid point guard in Keyonte George. The Jazz should consider investing in Peterson's development, focusing on his defensive playmaking and shooting gravity.
Free Noa Essengue: A Development Project
The Bulls' decision to bench Noa Essengue in Summer League raises questions about his future with the team. Essengue, a 19-year-old with intriguing physical tools, has a history of performing well against older competition. His numbers in Summer League were respectable, but his struggles with turnovers, free throws, and physicality are areas for improvement. The Bulls, with their limited talent, should consider investing in Essengue's development rather than yanking his minutes around. He needs a franchise that will give him the opportunity to grow and contribute, and another team may be willing to take a chance on him.
Lakers' Summer League Players: The Key to Their Regular Season
The Lakers' Summer League team featured two players who could be key contributors to their regular season success. Chris Mañon and Adou Thiero, both young wings, showcased their defensive playmaking and athletic freakishness, respectively. Mañon, a disruptive defender, and Thiero, a transition specialist, have the skill sets that the Lakers need to push their big league club over the top. The Lakers should develop a plan for these players, shaping them into real contributors come playoff time.
Second-Rounders Who Will Be Solid Rotation Players
The 2026 NBA Draft's second round may have been affected by NIL, but there are still gems to be found. Seven second-rounders, including Bruce Thornton, Meleek Thomas, Henri Veesaar, Trevon Brazile, Jack Kayil, Baba Miller, and Nick Martinelli, can carve out careers in the NBA. Thornton and Thomas stood out in Summer League, while Brazile's fit in Denver is ideal. Kayil and Martinelli also showed promise, proving that talent can be found beyond the first round.
Khaman Maluach: A Future All-Star
Khaman Maluach, a big man, dominated Summer League with his scoring, rebounding, and blocking abilities. His 40% three-point shooting and 70.4% true shooting percentage make him a force to be reckoned with. Maluach's performance in Summer League has solidified his potential as a future All-Star, and his ability to contribute from day one makes him a valuable asset for any team.
Yaxel Lendeborg: A Winding Journey to the NBA
Yaxel Lendeborg, a rookie for the Warriors, is just a couple of months away from his 24th birthday. His winding journey to the NBA, including a national championship, showcases the importance of developing on one's own timeline. Lendeborg's immediate contribution to Golden State is a testament to his NBA readiness, and his ability to contribute from day one is a rare quality.
