The NBA Summer League has come and gone, and the rookie class has left a lasting impression. The 2026 NBA Draft class, which built significant enthusiasm throughout the last year, did not disappoint as fans got to see these players in NBA jerseys for the first time. All of the top-four prospects played exceptionally well, and many selected beyond that top group also impressed.
As an expert analyst, I want to share my insights and commentary on the top rookies who stood out during the Summer League. Let's dive into the performances and potential of these young talents.
AJ Dybantsa: A Star in the Making
AJ Dybantsa, the No. 1 overall pick by the Washington Wizards, lived up to the hype in his two games in Las Vegas. The 6-foot-9 wing showcased his downhill driving ability, consistently breaking down the defense and getting out on the break. His poise and patience in letting plays develop around him before exploding to score at the rim were impressive. Dybantsa's performance earned him 50 total points in his two games, and he drew 14 free-throw attempts, showcasing his ability to draw fouls.
However, Dybantsa still needs to work on his shooting. His jumper wasn't working in Las Vegas, and he'll need to take the next two years to lock in and hone his jumper. His mechanics were messy, and he'll need to find answers as a shooter in the NBA.
Despite these concerns, Dybantsa looked like a star wing in the making. His athleticism and ability to draw fouls were on full display, and he showed the dynamic athlete we've come to expect. I believe he has star wing upside and will be a force to be reckoned with in the NBA.
Darryn Peterson: A Shooting Machine
Darryn Peterson, the No. 2 overall pick by the Utah Jazz, played four games between the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues, looking every bit as advertised as Dybantsa. Peterson drilled 3s with ease, hitting 38.5% of his nearly seven attempts from distance per game. He played on the ball, showcasing dynamic athleticism to separate from his man when getting to pull-up jumpers, and averaged 25 points per game.
However, Peterson struggled to get to the rim, often settling for floaters in the 6-foot range instead of getting to the bucket. He drew fouls at a high clip in Las Vegas, but this was a concern at Kansas. Despite this, Peterson displayed everything you'd look for in a potential superstar on this level of competition, and his shotmaking ability was out of control.
Cameron Boozer: A Versatile Talent
Cameron Boozer, the No. 3 overall pick by the Memphis Grizzlies, played five quietly superb games between his two summer league stops. He scored 18 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and dished out nearly four assists while shooting 51% from the field, 45% from 3, and 80% from the line in 27 minutes per game. Boozer's game was much more structurally sound, and he consistently made the right decisions while also continually threatening defenses.
Boozer's performance was highly translatable to actual NBA games, and he remains my pick for rookie of the year. The Grizzlies will be able to pop him into NBA games, and he's expected to average about 20 points, nine rebounds, and four assists next season.
Caleb Wilson: A Superstar in the Making
Caleb Wilson, the No. 4 overall pick by the Chicago Bulls, had the most explosive performance of the event with his 35-point opener against Boozer and the Grizzlies. Wilson's competitive character is off the charts, and he's the epitome of a "dawg." He showed serious improvement in his jumper, with mechanics looking cleaner and more fluid.
While there were process issues and ballhandling concerns, Wilson's performance was a monster and the kind of stuff you expect from future superstars. He looked the part and has Bulls fans salivating at the thought that they have found their next superstar. However, he'll need to iron out some inconsistencies as he develops.
Keaton Wagler: A Problem-Solver
Keaton Wagler, the No. 5 overall pick by the LA Clippers, was one of the more divisive rookies at summer league. He dealt well with pressure from a ball-control perspective but often didn't get anywhere on the court. However, his decision-making in the face of that pressure was superb, and he made the right passes when they came available.
Wagler's performance against the Jazz in his second game was a glimpse into what he could become. He played on the ball, driving into the lane and getting to his spot, and consistently put the ball where it needed to be at the right moment. I'm more positive about his summer league performance than most, and I'm not selling based on what we saw.
Brayden Burries: A polished Defender
Brayden Burries, the No. 10 overall pick by the Milwaukee Bucks, was one of the best players I saw at summer league. He scored 67 points in three games, shot 50% from the field and 44% from 3, and dished out 12 assists versus only one turnover. His comfort level and lack of fear stood out, and he looked completely poised. I wouldn't be surprised to see him compete for a first-team All-Rookie berth this season.
In conclusion, the NBA Summer League has provided a glimpse into the future of the league, and these top rookies have left a lasting impression. From star wings to shooting machines, versatile talents to problem-solvers, these young players have the potential to become the next big stars in the NBA. As an expert analyst, I'm excited to see what the future holds for these talented individuals.
