Through two games of the NBA Summer League, Minnesota Timberwolves wing Jaylen Clark has averaged 7 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists on 25/18/50 shooting splits. At face value, this isn’t great for a player who is projected to have a sizable rotational role, especially given the high points of Terrence Shannon Jr., Rob Dillingham, and Joan Beringer. However, there should be no reason for Wolves fans to panic about Clark, and he is still making a high-level defensive impact.
Clark's summer league play so far
Undoubtedly, summer league is a slightly different brand of basketball; there’s less structure and more of an emphasis on self-creation. Clark thrives with a structured offense and playing off others. Playing alongside the likes of Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle gives Clark open looks. Notably, this past season, Clark shot 44.9 percent on catch-and-shoot 3s.
Clark will never be a self-creator at the NBA level. That’s perfectly fine, as Clark will have a long career with his spot-up shooting abilities and defense. However, in a summer league setting, as one of the Wolves’ stars, Clark has been tasked with more responsibilities as a creator. Overall, not being able to dominate as a scorer in the summer league shouldn’t be a concern for Clark’s NBA viability.
Clark has made a positive impact as a passer in summer league play. While his 2 assists per game don’t jump off the page, he has constantly made the right reads and has only committed one turnover through two games. At the NBA level, Clark’s ability to make the extra pass and serve as a connective playmaker will benefit him.
Defense has always been Clark’s calling card, and he has continued to be impactful defensively in the summer league. On the ball, Clark has made it difficult for his assignment to score. He has served as the Wolves' primary stopper both on guards and wings. Off the ball, Clark has wreaked havoc as a help-side defender, racking up steals and blocks. His relentless motor has also been a strength. Clark's combination of defensive prowess and spot-up shooting makes him a prototypical 3-and-D wing.
Jaylen Clark block + TJ Shannon transition pass to Jamal Cain for the layup, great two-way sequence pic.twitter.com/GpV4xkTBeq
— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) July 13, 2025
Ultimately, if you are just looking at the box score, it would be fair to be concerned about Clark’s summer league. However, his defensive impact is evident, and the offensive numbers need context. With plenty of open minutes available following Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s departure, Clark is still poised to play a quality rotational role.