NBA Summer League is an amazing experience for all to take part in. Fans and media alike get unique access to players. Not only do you get to watch 4 games in a single day but you get to sit up close and personal. Its the ultimate fan experience with NBA players are constantly walking around, signing autographs, taking pictures and interacting with fans. After spending the four days in Las Vegas, there were many things I noticed.
The DeMarcus Cousins and George Karl saga doesn’t seem to be coming to an end soon. Sam Amick broke it down after talking both Karl and Vlade Divac. After spending time with Divac, Peja Stojakovic, Mike Bratz and company before the arrival of Cousins, Karl was on the opposite side of the gym for the Kings game Sunday against the Denver Nuggets. Prior to that game, Cousins shared pleasantries and a hug with former coach Michael Malone. Monday brought about the first interaction between Cousins and Karl which went awkwardly to say the least. While there is still plenty of time to get things on track, it is a relationship that will definitely need some work.
Speaking of Peja Stojakovic, he seems to have a clear role with the organization. He was at all of the games constantly talking with Divac, Karl, Bratz and others.
All of the off season signings made an appearance on Monday. Rajon Rondo, Kosta Koufos, Omri Casspi, Caron Butler, and Marco Belinelli all were in attendance for the Kings victory in game 3 over the Golden State Warriors.
New Kings with Casspi, Boogie and Vivek. pic.twitter.com/AMYbL4hFez
— Kyle Robert (@NotoriousKRO) July 14, 2015
Luc Mbah a Moute was also in attendance on Monday. He was chatting with the Kings front office among others. Word surfaced that a deal was in place for him to rejoin the Kings.
Just chatted with Luc Mbah a Moute who said he's excited to be back with the Kings
— Jason Jones (@mr_jasonjones) July 14, 2015
As for the on-court performances, Willie Cauley-Stein looks to be the real deal. His athleticism is unquestionable. Not only was he able to switch onto multiple positions but was able to chase down a guard and make an incredible block. Game three was his best to date. He put a monster 13 points, 8 rebounds and 5 blocks in only 17 minutes. He seemed to get more comfortable on the more he played.
Eric Moreland impressed me over the three games. Over the first three games he has average 6 points, 7 rebounds and over 2 blocks. Game three was his best performance with 11 points, 6 rebounds and 2 blocked shots. He flourished in a reserve role behind Cauley-Stein. He had a constant motor and made the effort to be in the right place at the right time. His offensive game has made tremendous strides. Moreland has clearly put in the work during the off season. He showed the ability to turn over both shoulders and look much more comfortable with the ball in his hands.
James Anderson finally put together a good game in game 3. He was very underwhelming in the first two games, looking somewhat lethargic. He went 6 for 6 from the field including 1-1 from behind the three point line. He also made 4 of 6 from the charity strike. Im curious to see if this was a blip on the radar or something he can keep going throughout the rest of the Kings Summer League experience.
The Sacramento Kings were well represented in the stands. The fans showed up early, cheered loud and showed why we are the best fans in the NBA. Chants of “Sac-ra-men-to” and “Let’s go Kings” could be heard. Even prompting a mention from Mateen Cleaves on the NBA TV broadcast.
If you have an opportunity to be in Las Vegas during NBA Summer League jump on it. You won’t regret it.
Next: More On Summer League: Analyzing Willie Trill Cauley-Stein's Performance