2020 has been a rough year for anyone and everyone but what a roller coaster for the Oklahoma City Thunder, am I right? Not only was this past season the first without their superstar Russell Westbrook but they were one of the team’s involved in the infamous NBA shutdown. The reality of COVID-19 hit so many on Wednesday, March 11. Right before game time at the Chesapeake Energy Arena, both the Thunder and the Jazz, their opponents for the night, were rushed back to their locker rooms. What followed was the NBA shutdown and alas, the Orlando Bubble. Now, OKC has a bunch of draft picks.
Let’s talk about this off season
As if all of that was not enough to entertain the dedicated fans of the small market team, General Manager Sam Presti has choreographed one of the most elaborate and confusing off seasons in NBA history, making trade deals with almost one-third of all the teams in the league. And not only did Presti create a roster that is unrecognizable for even the most dedicated Thunder aficionado, the team now holds up to 32 first and second draft picks between 2021 and 2027.
But what is Presti thinking? Is he planning on picking up over 30 new players in the upcoming seasons? Hopefully not because that is the worst rebuilding plan any front office executive could think up. The good news is that these picks are leverage that puts OKC in the position to do whatever the heck they want.
Let’s look into the future…
Some rumors state that OKC has their sights set on Emoni Bates, a 6’8″16 year old small forward and Michigan State commit who has already graced the cover of Sports Illustrated. He is taller than your average small forward, especially those still in high school, but nonetheless he is the next big thing.
Obviously, the Thunder aren’t going to be the only team hoping to woo Bates to their pretty city but these picks could be the key to guarantee this young player is heading to the Sooner State. Depending on the next steps in Bates’ career, and how Shai Gilgeous-Alexander develops in the spotlight, this could be the recipe for something special for these two.
Of course, history tells us that nothing in the National Basketball Association is predictable. Who knew that not only Westbrook, but James Harden too, would be requesting trades just a season after they gather together in the Houston humidity? This is where draft picks are like currency to ensure that Oklahoma City stays relevant.
This season
Until then, all us Thunder fans are not holding our breath. We have a long season ahead of us as we send beloved players like Steven Adams and Dennis Schröder on the road to their new homes as well as memorize the new names on the roster. Thankfully, we have Luguentz Dort to keep us company and, as always, the entertaining Rumble the Bison.
