A look at top performers from the last day of action at the MGM Resorts NBA Summer League:
KJ McDaniels, Portland Trail Blazers
On a night punctuated by teamwork, it was only fitting that a reserve shone brightest for the Summer League champion Blazers. McDaniels went off for 17 points and seven rebounds in just 20 minutes off the bench, enough production to earn the title game MVP award. The 25-year-old free agent gave Portland — and other NBA teams — a lot to think about with his show of athleticism and efficiency (zero turnovers, one foul). Perhaps most impressive: his effort, which ensured five of his seven rebounds occurred on the offensive glass.
Caleb Swanigan, Portland Trail Blazers
After a dominant semifinal performance against Memphis, Swanigan showed he could help his team through the intangibles as much as with raw production. The second-year forward did all the dirty work required for the Blazers to win without seeking to reward himself after the fact. Despite taking just five shots, Swanigan sported a team-best plus-minus (+24) to go along with his seven points, nine rebounds and five assists in 26 minutes. If he can pick his spots on offense better in the regular season (39 FG% in Las Vegas), Swanigan could earn more minutes for a Blazers team intent on staying well within the Western Conference mix.
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