The NBA Summer League offered several franchises fresh reasons for optimism, highlighted by Miami’s rookie class, an eye-catching run from Indiana forward Jalen Slawson, and encouraging performances from a trio of Boston prospects.
Miami leans on rookie shooting and depth
With a payroll that now ranks among the league’s most expensive, the Heat continued their search for low-cost contributors and left Las Vegas encouraged by second-round pick Ryan Conwell. The guard appeared in four games across the California Classic and Las Vegas circuits, launching 36 three-point attempts and connecting on 11. Summer League coach Wayne Ellington praised Conwell’s two-way effort, noting, “Defensively, he competes his butt off… Offensively he’s a force and he makes tough shots.”
Undrafted wing Tre White also impressed, averaging 17.3 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.8 steals while shooting 40 percent from deep. Ellington cited White’s size, shooting touch and IQ as reasons Miami may pursue a two-way or Exhibit 10 deal.
Free-agent guards Trevor Keels and Jahmir Young strengthened their cases for two-way contracts, while center Vladislav Goldin and guard Tre Donaldson have already locked in two-way agreements.
Slawson’s all-around impact boosts Pacers
Restricted free agent Jalen Slawson delivered one of the event’s most complete stat lines for the Pacers, leading the club with 20.8 points and 3.2 blocks per game. Despite hitting just 29 percent of his three-pointers, the 6-foot-7 wing capped his run with 22 points and four blocks. Coaches cited his energetic recoveries from mistakes as further evidence he belongs in the regular rotation.
Celtics prospects raise profiles
The Celtics entered Summer League focused on Hugo Gonzalez, Chris Cenac Jr., Dillon Mitchell and Amari Williams. Gonzalez, Cenac and Mitchell each saw their draft stock trend upward, while Williams maintained his pre-summer position. Wing John Tonje, who held a two-way contract last season, played well enough to remain under consideration for a similar slot in 2026-27.
Clifford sharpens leadership with Kings
Nique Clifford did not post eye-catching numbers for the Kings but emphasized growth in leadership and defensive aggression. “If I see something, go make the play,” Clifford told KCRA News, contrasting this summer’s expectations with the broader latitude he felt a year ago.
The Summer League slate concluded with multiple fringe prospects positioning themselves for training-camp invites and two-way contracts as NBA rosters take shape ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Source: Hoops Rumors
