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Corey Kispert finds his stroke

Sunday’s performance highlights the wing’s potential

2021 Las Vegas Summer League - Milwaukee Bucks v Washington Wizards Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images

Corey Kispert: 18 points, 3 rebounds, 2 blocks, 2 turnovers in 23 minutes

Kispert had his best game in Las Vegas, showcasing his quick release and adept shot creation while sinking 7 of 12 shots (4 for 7 from three). He was far more comfortable with his stroke and the coaching staff drew up plenty of opportunities, something that had been missing in their first couple games. He was able to execute not only in catch-and-shoot scenarios but also off the dribble against heavy-footed bigs.

It was also the first win for the Wizards in the Summer League, and by far the most cohesive performance from them. Kispert not only looked more fluid on offense, but he also appeared to look a touch better in matchup defense. If he can continue to shore up his on-ball defense, he’ll have a long career with that perimeter ability. Games like Sunday’s showed his potential in an offense that was mindful in finding improved looks. Playing alongside shooters like Bradley Beal and scoring threats like Spencer Dinwiddie and Kyle Kuzma will only help him get more space for his release.

Fillip Petrusev: 2 points, 0 rebounds, 0 assists, 2 turnovers, 1 foul in 9 minutes

You could have made a case heading into Sunday’s slate of games that Petrusev had the best Summer League of former Zags considering Killian Tillie and Jalen Suggs’ injuries misfortune. Physicality concerns were what siphoned his draft stock, but he found a way to show a bit of bounciness with 8 blocks throughout his Summer League campaign.

Perhaps he was due for the quiet stat line he filled out Sunday, getting bumped out of the 76ers starting lineup and struggling to find a way to contribute and stay on the floor in 76ers 99-96 overtime loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Summer Sixers’ coach Brian Adams instead opted for a smaller lineup and seemed to have been tasked with giving Paul “B-ball” Reed some extended run and looks.

For Petrusev to remain a viable two-way player for Philadelphia he will need to make improvements on his rebounding. The 76ers play against the Utah Jazz on Monday.

Jonathan Williams II: 1 turnover in 3 minutes

Zach Norvell: DNP, Coach’s Decision

Killian Tillie: DNP, Hip Discomfort

Jalen Suggs: DNP, Sprained Thumb

Williams yet again struggled to find minutes with the undefeated Summer League Sacramento Kings. Norvell also could not break through the logjam with the San Antonio Spurs. Tillie is likely done in Las Vegas with the Grizzlies playing the Clippers Monday night.

Today’s Games

Washington Wizards (Kispert) vs. Indiana Pacers, 12:00 PM PT, ESPN3

San Antonio Spurs (Norvell) vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (Ryan Woolridge), 2:00 PM PT, ESPN3

Memphis Grizzlies (Tillie) vs. Los Angeles Clippers, 6:00 PM PT, ESPN3