Chicago’s top draft pick Caleb Wilson delivered a standout Las Vegas Summer League debut on Friday night, scoring 35 points and grabbing five rebounds in a loss to Memphis. According to the NBA, the total is the second-highest ever recorded by a player in his first Summer League game since the event began in 2004.
The No. 4 overall selection, who fractured his left wrist at North Carolina in February, said returning after a five-month layoff was overwhelming. “I’ve just been really emotional because I haven’t been able to play,” Wilson said. “Coming out today, it just felt like I’ve been waiting so long for this opportunity.”
Wilson hit 7-of-11 attempts from three-point range and added three blocks, two steals and six rebounds. He committed six turnovers, but new head coach Tiago Splitter praised the rookie’s assertiveness. “The first game, of course, he played extremely well shooting the ball and doing different things,” Splitter noted. “But this is a long road.”
Bulls monitor other young pieces
First-round guard Dailyn Swain spent the night running the offense, a new role intended to develop his playmaking. “Right now is a time for mistakes, a time for growth,” Swain said. “(Coach) is throwing me in the fire.”
Second-year forward Noa Essengue appeared in his first game since a left shoulder injury ended his season in December. After a cautious start, he blocked four shots, forced two turnovers and scored 10 points in 29 minutes.
Powell addresses short-term deal
Veteran wing Norman Powell, whose two-year contract became official on Friday, spoke Saturday about the team option that could make his stay brief. “I go into every situation wanting to be here and help win,” Powell said, adding that he is aware of the league’s changing salary landscape but is focused on “being in the moment.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
