Rookie Of The Year, Paolo Banchero will not participate in the summer leagues with the Magic. He has nothing to do there, and he will devote himself to preparing for the World Cup. Ditto Walker Kessler, the pivot of Jazz. On the other hand, although he is already considered one of the best sixth men in the NBA, Bennedict Mathurin will be in Las Vegas with the Pacers. Same with Andrew Nembhard. Yet in 3rd year, Isaiah Jackson too.
“They will be veterans for this competition” explains Jannero Pargocoach of the Pacers in the summer league. “They will be comfortable, and I expect them to be leaders on and off the pitch. »
Elected in the best five rookie of the season with his 16.7 points average, Mathurin does not regret returning to Las Vegas even if there is nothing to prove. “It’s an opportunity to play real matches… And I take it as an opportunity to apply what I’ve been working on all summer” believes the Quebecer. “I try to play as much as possible, and also help my teammates. I think it will be as beneficial for me as for them. I try to help them, and I try to become more of a leader. All while trying to have fun and improve myself. »
And what will he advise his young teammates, like Jarace Walker and Ben Sheppard, drafted 10 days ago? “I will tell them that they are surrounded by people who are ready to help them, to answer any questions they have. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, but also be open to learning. »