The Oklahoma City Thunder’s newest big man could be exactly what the team needs.
After trading for Gordon Hayward at the trade deadline, Thunder GM Sam Presti signed veteran center Bismack Biyombo for the rest of the season.
With some fans and media vocal about the Thunder’s need for a backup center, the team brought in Biyombo to fill that void. He played 30 games for the Memphis Grizzlies this season, starting 27.
With Chet Holmgren firmly holding the starting spot and Jaylin Williams solidified as the backup, Biyombo has been looked at as a third-string center who will rarely get playing time. Although that could be the reality, Biyombo’s role could also be much larger than that.
In his 13th NBA season, Biyombo has been in plenty of situations, including playing next to other big men. Although he is seen as someone who can give the Thunder a different look as the only center on the floor, his ability to coexist with Holmgren or Williams is a potential weapon.
Oklahoma City’s opponents have often won the rebounding battle and been bigger inside. Biyombo allows Oklahoma City to combat that by using a double bigs lineup with a different design from the pairing of Holmgren and Williams.
Biyombo’s skill set matches the traditional center, for he can rebound, block shots and finish around the rim. Holmgren and Williams are more skilled and can play around the perimeter, specifically on offense.
Still, the Thunder’s young centers can play the four when needed and be effective on defense against other teams that play big. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault has already experimented with Holmgren and Williams on the floor together, which has primarily led to good results.
Although the Thunder’s defensive rebound percentage drops about 8%, their offensive rebound percentage jumps to 43.9%, well above the best mark in the NBA, with both on the floor. The duo has played only 48 minutes, but with a net rating of +17, the Thunder’s double-big lineup has been a clear success.
It may be a long shot for Biyombo to have that type of impact, but if the Thunder give their second-oldest player an opportunity to contribute, it could transform their attack against otherwise tough matchups.
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