The 2025 NBA Summer League is nearing its conclusion, with playoff games taking place across Las Vegas. To kick things off on Saturday, the Knicks will take on the Wizards at 3:30 p.m. EST. For New York, these games are about finding quality bench pieces to support a title contender. Washington is looking to find diamonds in the rough to speed up a lengthy rebuilding phase. Which of these two Eastern Conference squads will come out on top this afternoon?
DraftKings Sportsbook is listing the Wizards as two-point favorites and -130 on the moneyline. The Knicks are at +110 odds on the moneyline, and the game total is set at 180.5 points. Let’s break down both Summer League squads, players to watch, and a pick for the contest.
Knicks vs. Wizards preview, prediction
Despite trading away most of their draft assets, the Knicks still have a few intriguing prospects. After all, New York made four draft picks last season, all of which are currently in Vegas. Of those names, Kevin McCullar Jr. has impressed the most. Through two Summer League games, the Kansas alum is leading the team with 21.5 points on 51.7% shooting. Unfortunately, a nasal contuison could keep the forward sidelined all weekend. He’s joined by guard Tyler Kolek, who has dropped 13.0 points and 5.3 assists over four outings. The pass-first PG needs to improve on his efficiency (32.1 FG%).
The biggest surprise for New York has been MarJon Beauchamp. The former Bucks forward is averaging 17.0 points and 3.3 rebounds. It remains to be seen if that level of production will earn the fourth-year pro a roster spot. Backup big man Ariel Hukporti as also impressed, recording 7.7 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game. Former first-round pick Pacome Dadiet has been solid thus far (12.0 PPG, 3.5 RPG). However, the Frenchman is out of commission due to a left foot sprain.
For the Wizards, everything now (and in the future) revolves around Tre Johnson. The sixth overall pick in June’s NBA Draft, the guard has looked pro-ready through two Summer League showings. The Texas product has lit up Vegas with 19.5 points per game on 58.3% shooting (45.5 3PT%). However, he’s been held out of action during the team’s last two contests. The same is true of Kyshawn George and Alex Sarr, two of Washington’s most important young players.
So, who is suiting up for the Wizards on Saturday? A.J. Johnson, acquired from the Bucks last season, is a name to watch. The former first-rounder has been terrific so far, dropping 16.0 points on 48.0% shooting. Expect second-rounders Jamir Watkins and Leaky Black to play a significant role for Washington, as well. Former first-round pick Dillon Jones should see a larger workload, as well.
Knicks vs. Wizards Pick, Best Bet
As of Saturday morning, it’s difficult to say who will and won’t play in this one. However, it’s safe to say that McCullar Jr. and Hukporti are unlikely to take the floor for the Knicks. On the other side, it’s doubtful we’ll see Tre Johnson, Sarr or George. That leaves us with a truly bare-bones roster for both sides. At this point, I’d rather back the best player on the court in A.J. Johnson. His presence, combined with New York’s 1-3 record, should be enough to carry the Wizards.
