Kel’el Ware leads Miami to 4-0
Summer league has firmly started and I believe its time we take a look back at this year’s Summer League squad. I’ll also throw in some grades over the first four games.
Kel’El Ware A+
For starters I believe it's best to return to this year's 15th overall pick. The Indiana standout is continuing where he left off. 4 Games; 4 Double doubles. He’s averaging an impressive 17 points, 8 Rebounds, and 2 blocks. Another impressive moment, when playing alongside NBA talent like Jaime Jaiquez he’s meshed well. He’s been a productive roll-man and I see a world where he’s a prominent post player against weaker talent. Only the future knows how if he’ll be able to contribute next to a player like Bam but it sure looks bright.
Cole Swider. B
In limited action (17 MPG) he’s continued to play his role. Shooting 50% on five attempts from three, Swider spaces the floor without commanding too much attention. Defensive limitations along with better options at the position are stopping him from being more than a rotational player. He’s a bit weaker on that end despite displaying good effort.
Isaiah Stevens A+
The Colorado State Point Guard has been one of my favorite players on this Summer League team. He makes all the right reads, pushes the pace, and takes shots that are given to him. Stevens is dishing out 9 assists a game while only turning the ball over less than a third of that amount. His ten points don’t jump off the stat sheet but accompanied by his 57% from the field and 75% from 3 sure do. A pure point guard in the truest sense and a complete joy to watch.
Pelle Larsson C-
Larsson hasn’t started off the season so well. Shooting under league average in both categories. It’s not the end of the world of course and I believe he’ll even get better. But currently his production is not up to par. He’s getting starter minutes and shows he is worthy of the task. But his offense isn’t completely there.
Josh Christopher A-
The third year guard made some noise on miami’s G-League affiliate skyforce. With splits of 21/5/5 and even a 40 point game in March against the Hustle, it was an obvious decision to give him the call up. Against the Thunder he posted 23 points behind his six threes, and 20 points in their first game against the celtics. He’s a do it all guard with a scoring flair. The extra punch wouldn’t hurt given his ability to play off the ball and create his own shot. He didn’t play well in the California Classic series, but seems to be making up for it in a huge way. Will definitely be something to take note of.