5. Nickeil Alexander-Walker, New Orleans Pelicans PG/SG
Stats through two games: 24.5 points, 7.0 assists, 3.5 rebounds, 2.0 steals, 52.8 field-goal percentage, 46.2 three-point percentage
All eyes were locked on Zion Williamson to start the New Orleans Pelicans' summer league experience. As of July 11, the main storyline has instead been the play of Nickeil Alexander-Walker, the team's third first-round pick who's looked more comfortable and commanding than he did down the stretch for Virginia Tech.
While his scoring numbers stand out first, his facilitating has been the more satisfying development from a projection standpoint. He's delivered a number of high-level passes off the dribble, through crowds off ball screens and off penetration. A first-time viewer would believe they were watching a natural point guard, though signs leading up to summer league pointed to Alexander-Walker settling in as more of a secondary playmaker or combo guard.
His 24.5 points per game have been equally impressive, however. He's executed smoothly as a driver, mid-range shot-maker and pull-up shooter.
He has looked SO good to me.
I think this will be the guy that in 2-3 years posters will say "he's the guy I always wanted. I knew he'd be better than PJ. This was "my" guy" - *even though they'd never mentioned him previously
Rather than hindsight, let's call that phenomenon.........Kawhisight.
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