6 Grizzlies that shined during 2023 NBA Summer League
5. David Roddy & 6. Jake LaRavia
David Roddy and Jake LaRavia, both of whom were first-round selections of the Grizzlies during last year’s NBA Draft, had an up-and-down SLC Summer League.
When one player had a truly standout game, the other would struggle. Both showed flashes and positive developments that could potentially translate to prime rotation minutes for the Grizzlies, but both also showed reasons why they may not be ready for a prominent role next season.
LaRavia arguably had the standout game of any Grizzly so far this Summer League, with a 25-point outburst against the Thunder.
During that game, LaRavia showcased his ability from long-range (4-of-9 shooting from deep), offensive creativity (floaters, finishes around the rim, step-backs, etc.), and a much improved defensive game, staying locked into his assignment and hustling on recoveries.
If the game against the Thunder was LaRavia’s ceiling, the game against the 76ers was his floor, and between a 2-of-11 shooting performance (2-of-9 from deep), several careless turnovers and fouls (three turnovers and six fouls), and a tendency to over-pursue on defense, it’s easy to see that game as a low point.
For David Roddy, however, this game was his showcase, as he put up 18 points (on 4-of-9 shooting from deep, same as LaRavia’s game against OKC), 4 rebounds, and a clutch drive and finish that won the game for the Grizzlies.
Roddy’s ceiling may not be as high as LaRavia’s, but Roddy’s game against the 76ers exemplified his potential fit in a variety of Grizzlies lineups this upcoming season.
Between his timely treys, his defensive acumen, his control and decision-making on drives to the basket, and his willingness to make the extra pass, Roddy’s game on this night can be seen translating to the regular season, even potentially the starting lineup depending on the Grizzlies’ decisions this offseason.
Like LaRavia though, Roddy had a game where his floor was shown, and that was against the Thunder. The 8-point, 2-of-12 shooting performance left a lot to be desired, however, he still managed to dish out 5 assists and grab 4 boards while still putting in effort on defense.
The Las Vegas Summer League will hopefully give the Grizzlies more answers in regard to their 2021 first-round picks. But for now, while both had standout efforts in Salt Lake City, LaRavia looks like the wing with the higher ceiling, while Roddy looks like the wing with the higher floor.
