The 30 players you need to pay attention to in summer league, from Atlanta to Washington

The NBA 2K26 Las Vegas Summer League, the main offseason event, begins on July 17th and runs for 11 days, concluding with a championship game on July 20th. This tournament follows the completion of the California Classic and Salt Lake City summer leagues.

The event will showcase top 2025 draft picks like Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, and VJ Edgecombe, along with other recent draftees including Bronny James, Reed Sheppard, and Rob Dillingham, plus unsigned veterans seeking roster spots. After each team plays four preliminary games, the top four teams advance to the playoffs. Semifinals are scheduled for July 19th, with the championship on July 20th. The remaining 26 teams will play a fifth game between July 18th and 20th.

ESPN analysts highlight key players to watch on each summer league team: Kobe Bufkin (Hawks) returns from shoulder surgery needing to solidify his place with Atlanta's new front office. Hugo Gonzalez (Celtics), Boston's lone 2025 first-rounder, enters a situation with potential wing minutes and an opportunity to develop his motor. Egor Demin (Nets), Brooklyn's top 2025 pick, is expected to be a primary on-ball playmaker where his passing vision should stand out. Kon Knueppel (Hornets), the 4th overall pick, will be the focal point for Charlotte, showcasing his excellent shooting and secondary playmaking ability. Matas Buzelis (Bulls) is also noted as a player to watch.