Best/Worst Draft Scenarios
(#14 pick)
Best Case Scenario: Drafting PF/C Frank Kaminsky (Wisconsin, Senior)
Trading the pick for veterans is certainly a strong possibility, with a potential trade partner in the Denver Nuggets, but it wouldn’t make all that much sense long-term for the franchise. If they swapped the pick for the expiring contracts (something necessary considering that they must have the maximum amount of cap space this offseason to re-sign superstar SF/PF Kevin Durant) of say, SF/SG Wilson Chandler and PF/C J.J Hickson, Oklahoma City would instantly become among the favorites to win the title, but after that, they would have major salary cap strife trying to re-sign these guys. If they can’t, it would simply be swapping a lottery pick in a talented class for a couple of one-year rentals. Instead, by nabbing a guy like Kaminsky, the Thunder can enjoy his cheap rookie deal for a full four years while still having a guy that could contribute right away and potentially start for them in due time. The winner of both the Naismith and Wooden awards, Kaminsky averaged 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game on very efficient shooting. He will play a role in some capacity, and will be especially important if C Enes Kanter doesn’t get re-signed this offseason. Though he has relatively low potential, Kaminsky will be among the frontrunners for Rookie of the Year.
Worst Case Scenario: None
There are just too many players that the Thunder would be satisfied with here. From big men like PF Trey Lyles and PF/C Frank Kaminsky, to wing players like SF Kelly Oubre Jr, SG Devin Booker, and SF Sam Dekker, to PG Cameron Payne, Oklahoma City can take whoever they feel fills the biggest need. According to reports, they really like Payne. While that wouldn’t be a bad pick by any means, they should definitely keep their options open. And with no obvious position of need to fill, Oklahoma City can take whoever they want and it would be fine.
(#14 pick)
Best Case Scenario: Drafting PF/C Frank Kaminsky (Wisconsin, Senior)
Trading the pick for veterans is certainly a strong possibility, with a potential trade partner in the Denver Nuggets, but it wouldn’t make all that much sense long-term for the franchise. If they swapped the pick for the expiring contracts (something necessary considering that they must have the maximum amount of cap space this offseason to re-sign superstar SF/PF Kevin Durant) of say, SF/SG Wilson Chandler and PF/C J.J Hickson, Oklahoma City would instantly become among the favorites to win the title, but after that, they would have major salary cap strife trying to re-sign these guys. If they can’t, it would simply be swapping a lottery pick in a talented class for a couple of one-year rentals. Instead, by nabbing a guy like Kaminsky, the Thunder can enjoy his cheap rookie deal for a full four years while still having a guy that could contribute right away and potentially start for them in due time. The winner of both the Naismith and Wooden awards, Kaminsky averaged 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game on very efficient shooting. He will play a role in some capacity, and will be especially important if C Enes Kanter doesn’t get re-signed this offseason. Though he has relatively low potential, Kaminsky will be among the frontrunners for Rookie of the Year.
Worst Case Scenario: None
There are just too many players that the Thunder would be satisfied with here. From big men like PF Trey Lyles and PF/C Frank Kaminsky, to wing players like SF Kelly Oubre Jr, SG Devin Booker, and SF Sam Dekker, to PG Cameron Payne, Oklahoma City can take whoever they feel fills the biggest need. According to reports, they really like Payne. While that wouldn’t be a bad pick by any means, they should definitely keep their options open. And with no obvious position of need to fill, Oklahoma City can take whoever they want and it would be fine.