NBA Summer League: Top 10 Non-RookiesBy:

1. DeMar DeRozan – 4 games 21ppg 4.5rpg 1.5apg 58fg% 40 3fg% 63FT%

 DeRozan was one of the best players in this year’s summer league, averaging 21 points (including 3 straight 20+ point games). And it should’ve been more had he converted on more than 63% of his free throws. DeRozan is a scorer in every sense of the word, showing his outside touch, ability to attack the basket, get to the line as well as finish in traffic. He also took care of the ball, committing just 4 turnovers in 4 games. Out of all the 2009 draftee’s, DeRozan was the most impressive this week and with Chris Bosh now gone, will be relied upon to contribute at least 15 points a game for Toronto this season. Judging by his performances over the summer, he looks ready for the responsibility.

2. JaVale McGee – 4 games 19.5ppg 9.3rpg 0.8bpg 68fg% 54ft%

McGee backed up a strong 2009 summer league with another impressive showing this year. He will receive more opportunity this year with Brendan Haywood not there to start the season and is looking primed for a breakout year, having filled out his frame some in the off-season. His highlights thrilled the crowds all week with each dunk seemingly outdoing the previous one. His time spent with TEAM USA will give him confidence heading into training camp.

3. JJ Hickson – 4 games 19.3ppg 6.3rpg 1apg 58fg% 61ft%

Hickson was far too much for the competition in summer league, averaging 19.3ppg and 6.3rpg. He finished plays around the basket and showed some ability finishing the break. His best effort came against a small phoenix team where he went for 34 and 9.With Lebron James now gone from Cleveland, Hickson looks ready and able to contribute more offensively.

4. Ty Lawson – 5 games 16.4ppg 2.4rpg 5apg 1.6spg 58fg% 42.9 3fg% 84ft%

Lawson was clearly one of the better players in the summer league, guiding the Nuggets to a 4-1 record. Denver’s only loss came against a hot Houston team when Lawson injured his shoulder. His shooting numbers were impressive and he also returned a super A/T ratio.

5. Reggie Williams – 5 games 22.6ppg 4.4rpg 2.8apg 41fg% 42 3fg% 82ft%

Only John Wall stopped Williams from picking up the summer league scoring title finishing with 22.6ppg. The lefty shot over 40% from deep and 80% from the line. Williams doesn’t have a contract beyond next season, so will be looking to have an impact for the new look warriors this year.

6. Sam Young – 5 games 19.4ppg 3.8rpg 1.4apg 1.2spg 54fg% 38,5 3fg%

Despite being taken lower, Young was easily the most impressive of the grizzlies 2009 draft picks and would’ve averaged over 20ppg had he not scored 3 points in his final game. Young posted a summer league high of 35 (albeit against the d-leaguers) and will likely provide the bulk of bench points for Memphis this season.

7. Sonny Weems – 4 games 17.5ppg 3.8rpg 2.8apg 44fg%

Weems would’ve been personally pleased the Matt Barnes deal fell through as it improves his chances to be the starting small forward for the Raptors.Weems has the size, skills and athleticism to be an effective wing in the NBA. His combination with DeRozan was potent all week and he is more than capable of being a double figure scorer for Toronto this season

8. Chase Budinger – 5 games 15ppg 4rpg 1.8apg 1spg 42fg%

Budinger’s game is very mature for a guy entering just his second year. Not only does Budinger have the skills and athleticism to be a player, he plays within his limits and never forces the issue. He’s an excellent teammate who is both unselfish and good at finding teammates for baskets.

9. Wayne Ellington – 5 games 15.8ppg 4.6rpg 2.2apg 1.2spg 40fg%

Ellington returned to summer league much more comfortable with his game. He can shoot better than he did in Vegas however. With Al Jefferson gone, Ellington will be looking to help out the likes of Michael Beasley with the majority of the Timberwolves offence.

10. Donte Greene – 5 games 13.2ppg 2.6rpg 1.6apg 46fg% 43 3fg% 80ft%

Greene’s numbers won’t blow anyone away but he was impressive this summer. He is vocal on the court and is a great team guy. With the likes of Cousins, Whiteside on the team, his rebounding was down this year but showed his is capable of being a double digit scorer for Kings this season.