A handful of Utah Jazz players have made their way to Las Vegas to catch the Summer League action firsthand. Among them are Collin Sexton, John Collins, Keyonte George, Walker Kessler, and Johnny Juzang, each attending at least one of the Jazz's initial two summer league games. But it's Cody Williams who's been stealing the show, drawing cheers and smiles from his teammates with his standout performances.
Drafted as the No. 10 overall pick in 2024, Williams had a relatively quiet stint during the Salt Lake City Summer League but has since burst into the spotlight in Las Vegas. His scoring has been diverse and impressive — from thunderous dunks and alley-oops to smooth mid-range pull-ups and catch-and-shoot threes. Despite his slender build, he's proven he can handle the physical demands of the NBA, evidenced by his stellar 21-point game on Saturday night where he shot 9-of-15 from the field, including 3-of-6 from downtown. Following that up with a solid 14-point performance on Monday, Williams showcased his versatility with two blocks and a steal to complement his scoring.
What has particularly caught the attention of Jazz CEO Danny Ainge isn't just Williams' scoring ability, but his all-around game. He's effective as a screen-setter, capable of initiating offense, adept at coming off screens, and a sharp cutter. Williams doesn't get rattled under pressure and maintains composure throughout the game, qualities that bode well for his NBA debut.
Assistant coach Sean Sheldon is already envisioning how Williams' versatility will benefit the team in the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season. "His ability to handle the ball, play off-ball, excel in transition, and knock down threes make him a valuable asset," Sheldon remarked. The focus now is on continuing to develop Williams to ensure he's comfortable in various game situations.
Unfortunately, Williams' rapid progress has inadvertently highlighted the struggles of Taylor Hendricks. Despite being the No. 9 overall pick in the 2023 draft and showing glimpses of defensive brilliance, Hendricks, at just 20 years old, has yet to find his rhythm on the court. His offensive game hasn't evolved as expected, often finding himself relegated to the corners rather than making a significant impact.
The comparison between Williams and Hendricks is becoming more pronounced as they vie for playing time. While Hendricks leans towards playing as a three or four, his offensive limitations may open the door for Williams to secure a higher spot in the rotation. Sheldon remains optimistic about Hendricks' potential and aims to boost his confidence during the remaining summer league games.
"We need to get him more involved, maybe get him out of the corners and encourage him to crash the offensive boards," Sheldon suggested. For Hendricks, finding opportunities to score and contribute more dynamically could be key to solidifying his place in the team.
In contrast, Williams seems to thrive regardless of the role or situation he's placed in. His ability to adapt and excel within the flow of the game is a promising sign for the rookie. "Cody's got something special," remarked fellow rookie Isaiah Collier. "At 6-foot-8, with that wingspan, he's bound to make a significant impact."
As the summer league progresses, all eyes will be on how Williams continues to develop and how Hendricks adjusts to meet the team's expectations. The competition for minutes between the two promises to be a storyline worth following as the Jazz prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
Login