Sergio de Larrea is working through an uneven but instructive Summer League with the Mavericks. The 6’7” Spanish guard opened the event with 14 points on 18 attempts – including 2-for-10 from deep – across his first two outings. He then erupted for 16 points and 12 assists in Dallas’ third game against the Grizzlies.
Summer League coach Joe Boylan said the club views the event as “a fact-finding mission,” using the games to evaluate how the rookie responds under pressure. Boylan noted that taller guards often face aggressive, smaller defenders in this setting, yet praised de Larrea’s poise, pick-and-roll reads and alley-oop vision. “We don’t want to judge guys only on results,” Boylan added, emphasizing a process-oriented approach.
Questions about whether de Larrea would remain overseas for another season were resolved when he signed his rookie contract, locking him into Dallas’ roster ahead of the October opener.
Rockets impressed with Bruce Thornton
Rockets Summer League coach Will Dunn admitted he “might have overused” first-round guard Bruce Thornton because Houston could not afford to take him off the floor in its opener. The 20-year-old’s shot creation and toughness have drawn early praise. Houston’s regular-season backcourt already features newcomers Marcus Smart and Bogdan Bogdanovic, yet head coach Ime Udoka may face a similar dilemma this fall if Thornton continues to command minutes.
Spurs rookies rally around Tarris Reed Jr.
Center Tarris Reed Jr. quickly became a favorite among Spurs teammates, who celebrated each of his early Summer League baskets. Fellow rookie JaKobi Gillespie called Reed “a leader without being super talkative,” citing his welcoming personality and strong faith. Reed’s power and low-post skill, hallmarks of his season at UConn, have also stood out during San Antonio’s first games in Las Vegas.
McLaughlin waives no-trade protection
Veteran guard Jordan McLaughlin, who re-signed with San Antonio on a one-year deal, agreed to forgo the automatic no-trade clause normally granted to players returning on such contracts. The waiver clears the Spurs to move him without his consent during the 2026/27 campaign.
Source: Hoops Rumors
