When Cheick Diallo prepared for his first NBA Summer League as a rookie two years ago, his coaches described it was a “whirlwind,” with the one-year college player just trying to keep up with all the adjustments he needed to make in pro basketball. With a total of 76 real NBA games now under his belt – including seven playoff appearances this spring – Diallo’s perspective on the summer circuit has changed significantly. So greatly that the 21-year-old is listing “league MVP” as one of his goals for the next week-plus of game competition.
“I’m trying to win every game,” Diallo said after New Orleans’ Tuesday practice.