Summer League Preview: Cooper Flagg Expectations, Reed Sheppard’s Return, and the Different Levels of Participation

J. Kyle Mann is joined by Danny Chau as they share their expectations for this year’s NBA Summer League. First, they discuss V. J. Edgecombe’s readiness, takeaways from Ace Bailey’s debut, and Kasparas Jakucionis’s struggles. Also, what to expect from the no. 1 pick Cooper Flagg, and how quickly will the Mavs shut him down. Next, the guys discuss the different types of players who participate in Summer League, from the second-year rookies who are still looking to develop to the last-chance players who are hoping to create their moment that leads to a roster spot.

(04:09) – V. J. Edgecombe
(08:42) – Ace Bailey
(14:19) – Kasparas Jakucionis
(21:04) – Cooper Flagg
(24:23) – Second- and third-year players looking to improve
(33:44) – On-the-clock players
(41:01) – Fringe roster players
(44:37) – Last-chance players

You can read Danny Chau’s article mentioned in the episode here.

Check out The Ringer’s 2025 NBA Draft Guide for all the latest prospect rankings, draft grades, and more!

Host: J. Kyle Mann
Guest: Danny Chau
Producer: Jessie Lopez
Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz
Social: Keith Fujimoto