Pelle Larsson is headed to Sweden in preparations for EuroBasket 25 as his dream summer continues after being quite dominant during the NBA's Summer League. It's hard to envision how this offseason could've gone any better for the second-year wing.
Larsson has certainly made the most of his opportunity after being selected in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. Larsson didn't play a ton for the Heat last season, but he did enough to leave a mark during his rookie season.
And after the development that he's continued to show this offseason, being especially dominant during his time on the floor during summer league, it's going to be difficult for the Heat to leave him out of the rotation this season.
Larsson's dream summer continues
Larsson concluded his successful summer league stint by averaging 18 points, three rebounds, and three assists. Perhaps most impressively, Larsson looked controlled and in command every time he was on the floor. He clearly looked like a player who was beyond playing in summer league.
However, there's no question that he's certainly going to benefit from getting the extra reps.
That much could be said as he prepares to suit up for Team Sweden in EuroBasket 25. Growing up in Sweden, and playing professionally there before coming to college here in the States, Larsson has some experience with international ball. He played in four games for the senior team in 2023 in their FIBA Basketball World Cup European Qualifiers.
Playing in EuroBasket this offseason will certainly give him more experience that is sure to pay off as he prepares for his sophomore season with the Heat. Larsson should also relish playing for Sweden in EuroBasket this summer. Sweden is not necessarily a powerhouse basketball program, and there's no predicting how many more opportunities he will have like this.
Understanding that, this is probably one of those dream summers that Larsson could've only hoped for growing up.
Larsson is trending up for the Heat
The Heat have to be especially satisfied with what they've seen from Larsson on the court this summer. He's continued to make impressive strides and has the look of a player that's ready for a bigger role this season.
It will certainly force Heat head coach to make some difficult decisions regarding the rotation, but it's probably a good problem to have. If Larsson can continue to impress with Team Sweden in EuroBasket 25, it will only raise the hype heading into the start of his sophomore season.
If this offseason is any indication, there's a very good chance that Larsson is preparing for a breakout season. What that will ultimatley look like is anyone's guess. However, the Heat should certainly be excited about his development based on what they've seen this summer.