As the countdown to the 2024 NBA Draft ticks closer, the buzz around potential picks and team strategies intensifies, especially for a team like the Oklahoma City Thunder.
With the 12th pick, courtesy of a trade with the Houston Rockets, the Oklahoma City Thunder have a prime opportunity to fortify their already youthful and promising roster.
The Strategic Play of Oklahoma City Thunder
Oklahoma City Thunder, carrying the legacy of being the youngest first seed in NBA history, is poised at an interesting juncture. Their current setup includes standout talents like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams—each bringing unique strengths to the team.
The focus now shifts to enhancing the depth that surrounds these core players, a strategic move that could solidify their position and competitiveness in the upcoming seasons.
Scouting the Prospects: Who Will Oklahoma City Thunder Pick?
Post-NCAA early-entry withdrawal deadline, draft analysts have provided their insights, narrowing down the prospects likely to don the Oklahoma City Thunder jersey. Each player brings a distinct skill set that could either complement or elevate the team’s current dynamics.
Devin Carter: The Defensive Dynamo
Devin Carter from Providence, a 6-foot-3 guard known for his defensive prowess and improving shooting skills, emerges as a potential pick. “He brings quite a bit to the table defensively, has made strides as a shooter, and plays with a nonstop motor,” noted Jonathan Givony of ESPN.
Although the Oklahoma City Thunder boasts depth in the backcourt with defensive stalwarts like Lu Dort and Cason Wallace, Carter’s inclusion could spur healthy competition and provide rotational depth.
Cody Williams: A Forward with a Familial Connection
Cody Williams, a promising 6-foot-8 forward from Colorado, is another intriguing prospect. Notably, his brother Jalen Williams is already a rising star with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Cody’s freshman year stats are impressive, with a conversion rate of 58.8% from 2-pointers and 41.5% from 3-pointers.
His potential as a proficient two-way wing makes him an appealing choice for the Oklahoma City Thunder, potentially reuniting the Williams brothers. “This would be a particularly meaningful destination for Williams,” remarked David Cobb from CBS Sports.
Dalton Knecht: Ready to Plug and Play
Dalton Knecht of Tennessee, standing at 6-foot-6, is praised for his readiness to adapt and contribute immediately to any NBA team. His robust offensive skills could see him playing a significant role whether for the Oklahoma City Thunder or another team looking to trade for this spot.
“Knecht is the type of player who could plug and play in this — or any — offense in the NBA,” says James Fletcher III of On3.
Tidjane Salaun: The European Prospect with a Sharp Shot
From France, Tidjane Salaun brings international flair to the draft pool. At 6-foot-9, Salaun’s notable achievements include making 74 three-pointers at just 18 years of age, demonstrating significant shooting range that could attract the Oklahoma City Thunder, looking to add size and shooting prowess to their wing positions.
Kyle Filipowski: The Versatile Big Man
Lastly, Kyle Filipowski from Duke represents a versatile option as a 7-foot center. His ability to play various roles on the court could be beneficial for the Oklahoma City Thunder, especially in lineups alongside Chet Holmgren. Despite a need for further development to reach his potential, Filipowski offers an interesting depth option for Oklahoma City.
Building on Youth and Promise
As the draft approaches, Oklahoma City Thunder stands at a pivotal point, ready to bolster their squad with a player who not only fits their current framework but also brings additional dynamism and potential.
The 12th pick holds not just a promise of a player, but the future trajectory of the Oklahoma City Thunder as they aim to build around their youthful core. The anticipation builds, and the prospects are enticing—a testament to the depth and diversity of talent in the 2024 NBA Draft pool.
Source: OKC Thunder Wire
