It's very early yet, but Suns fans hoping to see more from Earl Clark in his first summer league game were disappointed. Clark admitted after the game that he settled for too many jump shots and unfortunately, he continues to demonstrate poor form on that shot, resulting in a 4-for-14 shooting performance.
"I think I did alright. I think I did some good things. I settled for a lot of jump shots today. I think I could have went to the basket more," the Suns second-year forward said. "Tomorrow should be better."
Recent Suns draft pick Gani Lawal made his debut and also was underwhelming. Lawal was over-matched by former Arizona Wildcat Jordan Hill, who was stronger, bigger and quicker on both ends of the floor.
Lawal said this about his first appearance in a Suns uniform, "I had a good run out there. I made some good plays, I made some bad plays. I just have to keep working and take it day by day."
Gani had a couple of impressive finishes in transition, showing that he understands how important it is for him to run the floor in the Suns system. Late in the game, he also had two very solid post moves against Hill. Lawal understands that his role should he make the Suns roster this season will be defense and rebounding and in both areas he struggled against NBA-level competition his first time out.
The Suns were led by free agent point guard Zabian Dowdell, who had 16 points and 4 assists. He was invited to the Suns training camp last year, but suffered an injury before camp started that kept him off the court for several months. He played in the D-league and in Spain last season. Dowdell could have a chance of making this season's Suns roster if the team trades Leandro Barbosa as rumored.
For more on the Summer Suns, see Bright Side of the Sun.