Three Takeaways from the LA Clippers’ Summer League Opener
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Looks Smooth
From the first few minutes of the game, it was very obvious that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander wasn’t phased by any potential pre-game jitters. Instead, the rookie came out looking calm and collected, eager to show his skills.
The 19-year-old point guard finished the night with 13 points, four assists, two rebounds, two blocks, and a steal. In addition, Gilgeous-Alexander shot 5/19 from the field, including 1/5 from deep.
Not much of a shooter in college, Gilgeous-Alexander showed plenty of confidence in his shot, despite most of them not falling. He was able to get in the paint with ease as expected, and used his length to get easy looks inside. With time, he should become a far more efficient shooter.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's shooting form looks so much better than it did at Kentucky. This is really encouraging. #Clippers pic.twitter.com/PlojqoHZtY
— Jackson Frank (@jackfrank_jjf) July 7, 2018
Gilgeous-Alexander certainly looked the part when it came to passing, however. His four assists were a team high, and each looked more impressive than the last.
The big thing I noticed about Gilgeous-Alexander was how comfortable he looked. There was never a moment where he looked nervous, uneasy, or like he had lost control. Just seems to have a very good feel for the game, which is a promising sign moving forward.