Atlanta Hawks All-Star point guard Trae Young recently criticized the 2024 NBA rookie class, including the No. 2 overall pick, Alex Sarr, on Paul George’s podcast, “Podcast P Show.” Young did not hold back in his assessment of the incoming class, particularly targeting Sarr, who was drafted by the Washington Wizards. He suggested that many of the rookies would be role players rather than franchise players for their respective teams, unlike notable stars such as Luka Doncic and Zion Williamson. Young’s comments reflected a commonly held opinion among draft experts and basketball observers.
Despite his criticism of the incoming rookie class, Trae Young expressed optimism about his newest teammate, Zaccharie Risacher, who was selected as the Hawks’ No. 1 overall pick. Young, who had reportedly been unhappy with Risacher before, clarified that he had reached out to the 19-year-old from Spain and wished him luck in his NBA career. Risacher showed promise in the Summer League with average stats of 14.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. Young’s initial reservations about Risacher seem to have subsided as he looks forward to playing alongside the young talent.
While Trae Young’s comments may have seemed harsh towards the 2024 NBA rookie class, it is important to note that opinions can change over time. The lack of consensus around a clear superstar in the draft class leaves room for surprises and breakout performances in the future. Young’s critique of Alex Sarr and other incoming rookies reflects a general uncertainty about their potential impact on the league, but it also acknowledges that talent can develop and shine through unexpected avenues. As the season unfolds, fans and analysts will have a clearer picture of how the rookies fare in their respective NBA careers.
In a separate development, Lakers legend and NBA Hall of Famer, Shaquille O’Neal, called out Mavericks’ star Luka Doncic, labeling him as ‘lazy.’ O’Neal’s comments came as a surprise to many, given Doncic’s reputation as a talented and hardworking player in the league. The criticism sparked debates among fans and analysts about the validity of O’Neal’s assessment and whether it was a fair critique of Doncic’s playing style. Doncic has consistently proven himself as an elite player, and the criticism from O’Neal may serve as motivation for the young star to continue improving his game.
Overall, Trae Young’s candid remarks about the 2024 NBA rookie class shed light on the uncertainties surrounding incoming talent and the challenges they face in establishing themselves in a competitive league. While initial assessments may be critical, it is essential to allow time for players to develop and showcase their skills on the court. With the NBA season underway, fans can look forward to watching how the rookies, including Alex Sarr and Zaccharie Risacher, adapt to the demands of professional basketball and make their mark in the league. Young’s comments serve as a reminder of the intense scrutiny and expectations that come with being a top draft pick, but they also highlight the potential for surprises and breakthrough performances in the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA.
