Cam Whitmore Shines in Summer League Opener, Warranting a Bigger Role With the Rockets

The incoming sophomore forward is yet again proving why he needs more minutes in Houston.

Jul 12, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Houston Rockets forward Cam Whitmore (7) drives the ball against Los Angeles Lakers guard Tommy Kuhse (31) during the first half at the Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports | Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Rockets defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 99-80 in yesterday's first day of Las Vegas summer league action. Bronny James and the Lakers were heavily outmatched by Houston, led by the duo of Reed Sheppard and Cam Whitmore. Sheppard poured in 23 points, 5 assists, and 3 blocks, while Whitmore notched a 20-point, 10-rebound double-double to go along with 4 steals.

Whitmore, the 2023 Summer League MVP, is picking up right where he left off. The outside shot wasn't there for him, shooting just 16.7% from deep, however, he was making flashy plays at the rim, crashing the boards, and making defensive plays.

Cam Whitmore’s full highlights from today 🔥

(Via @atlgreenlight || #Rockets) pic.twitter.com/dLoqAz1bDb

— Bradeaux (@BradeauxNBA) July 13, 2024

Being Sheppard's debut yesterday, he got most of the attention, however, Whitmore's standout performance pushes further an increase in minutes for the incoming sophomore. The Villanova product averaged just 18.7 minutes last season, but took advantage, putting up 12.3 points and 3.8 rebounds in that time.

With his high-scoring volume given his minutes, his consistent summer league performances, and the Rockets still building with young talent at the core, Whitmore should be even more of a legitimate contributor for Houston.

Of course, there's going to be competition for the starting spot, with Whitmore playing alongside Dillon Brooks, Jabari Smith Jr., Amen Thompson, and Jalen Green. But if head coach Ime Udoka can find a way to wiggle Whitmore into more than 20 minutes per game, it will go a long way for this Houston offense.

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