As the 2025 NBA Summer League heats up in Las Vegas, fans and analysts alike are zeroing in on the emerging talents poised to make a statement. Beyond the much-anticipated debut of Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg, several players have been turning heads with standout performances, signaling they could be the breakout stars of summer basketball and beyond.
One of the most compelling stories is Kyle Filipowski, the Utah Jazz’s 6-foot-11 forward, who has carried his momentum from the regular season into the Summer League spotlight. With an eye-popping 35-point, 11-rebound outing against the San Antonio Spurs, Filipowski demonstrated a versatile scoring repertoire, combining perimeter shooting with effective post moves. His efficient shooting 11-for-19 overall and 5-for-9 from deep complemented his physicality, suggesting a player ready to flourish at the NBA level. A former ACC Rookie of the Year at Duke, Filipowski is leading all Summer League participants with an average of 29.3 points per game on 56.1% shooting, making him a prime candidate for a sophomore leap in the upcoming season. Utah Jazz head coach expressed enthusiasm, noting, “Kyle’s progression speaks volumes about his work ethic and ability to adapt to this league’s pace. He’s a multi-dimensional player who can stretch the floor and rebound.”
In the backcourt spotlight, guard Devin Carter of the Sacramento Kings stands out as a potential star. Drafted 13th overall in 2024, Carter missed much of last season due to offseason shoulder surgery but enters Summer League seeking to show he can take the reins offensively. Known for his gritty defense and rebounding ability despite his size, Carter’s toughness aligns with Sacramento’s physical style. Kings fans are eager to see if Carter’s playmaking and defensive tenacity translate to consistent scoring and leadership.
Denver Nuggets’ forward Derik Queen also merits attention. Last season at Maryland, Queen impressed with polished footwork and offensive instincts as a large, skilled forward. His interplay with fellow rookie Jeremiah Fears is already seen as a highlight reel in the making. Queen’s agility and offensive polish make him well-suited for modern NBA spacing schemes, and Summer League will test if that can translate at the next level.
For those drawn to gritty, no-nonsense wing players, Danny Wolf of the Brooklyn Nets offers intrigue. As Michigan’s offensive engine during a historic team turnaround, Wolf’s scoring bursts and court savvy have drawn praise. His Summer League minutes will be closely watched as he attempts to solidify a role amid Brooklyn’s deep roster.
Among international prospects, Minnesota’s 7-foot-4 center Rocco Zikarsky is a fascinating player to watch. Though his statistics in the NBL were modest, Zikarsky’s exceptional size and potential rim protection skills make him a unique developmental project. The Summer League offers his first NBA-level exposure and a chance to stake his claim in a crowded Timberwolves frontcourt.
Rounding out the list, Walter Clayton Jr. of the Utah Jazz is touted as one of college basketball’s best guards last season, entering an opportunity-rich backcourt after Utah moved on from veterans Jordan Clarkson and Collin Sexton. Clayton’s blend of shooting and defense positions him as a candidate for a breakout campaign.
As NBA Summer League progresses through July, the performances of these players balancing scoring, defense, and leadership paint a vivid picture of the league’s future stars. Analysts like Bleacher Report’s Adam Fromal emphasize that beyond the “obvious” top picks, “the real excitement is in the unexpected breakthroughs, the players who suddenly rise and force teams to pay attention.”
For fans and franchises alike, watching these breakout candidates unfold is as thrilling as it is insightful, offering a preview of the next wave destined to shape NBA seasons ahead.
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