"The logo, Jerry West, is in the house." Well, there's that. If Jerry West can watch hopefuls in July, so can we.
Caveat emptor; buyer beware. Summer league reeks of excess, after all, it's in Las Vegas. Pump the brakes.
1. Sample size. It's seductive to overhype or dismiss a guy based on a game or two against lesser competition without sophisticated defense or preparation. Last night Justin Jackson looked like George Gervin against the Summer Warriors. But a 27 year-old journeyman is one for a reason.
2. Confirmation bias. We like a player, so we read favorable profiles and reviews of how he's going to compete for a cherished NBA roster spot. In Vegas, tens of front office guys and coaches search for the Golden Nugget...and they don't care what USA Today says.
3. Anchoring. Imagine having a bias toward the dynamic size and athleticism of young wannabes. Then you see your guy jumping out of the gym and making a couple of plays. Yeah, but...he's out of control too often and turning the ball over.
- What does a guy's game show?
- Does he make good decisions?
- Does he make and execute the simple play?
- How does he impact winning?
- Does he make teammates better?
- Is he moving the ball or stopping it?
- What's his shot selection and execution?
- Does he space on offense and shrink space on D?
- Can he end possessions with rebounds, steals, and assists?