A daily look at the standout performers of the day at the Summer League in Orlando. Here are the opening day’s top players:
Justise Winslow, Miami Heat
It was easy to spot the young player with already 91 games (including playoffs) of NBA experience. Winslow was under control and in control of everything he did in ringing up 21 points, four assists, four rebounds and two steals to lead Miami in a 91-71 whipping of the Clippers.
Stanley Johnson, Detroit Pistons
Last year’s standout in Orlando went right back to work taking over Central Florida again by asserting himself and making big plays at both ends of the court. He turned the ball over four times, but more than made up for it with a solid across-the-board 15 points, eight rebounds, three assists and three steals.
Georges Niang, Indiana Pacers
The second-round draft pick struck a blow for college seniors by demonstrating his maturity, confidence and all-around game to sneak close to a triple-double with 17 points, 12 rebounds and five assists in the Pacers’ 93-66 thumping over Orlando Magic Blue. Niang shot 6-for-8 from the field ? including 3-4 behind the arc ? and also made his rugged presence felt around the the hoop.
Cameron Payne, Oklahoma City Thunder
The second-year guard missed summer league a year ago due to a fractured right hand, but wasted no time making his presence felt this time with a 3-pointer in the final seconds that gave OKC an 86-85 win in the opener at Orlando. He finished with 16 points, seven rebounds, four assists and often played off the ball, which will be necessary to get more playing with in a lineup with Russell Westbrook.
Arinze Onuaka, Orlando Magic White
One of the oldest players at the Orlando Pro Summer League and one of the smallest centers went to work and schooled the Hornets. The 6-9 bull who played last season for the Meralco Bolts in the Philippine Basketball Association will turn 29 next week, but was full of energy as he worked on the inside for 16 points and eight rebounds.
Fran Blinebury has covered the NBA since 1977. You can e-mail him here and follow him on Twitter.
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