To point out the obvious, Oklahoma City has one of the best lineups in the NBA when it comes to creation and penetrating the defense. Sam Presti has built a roster full of solid ball-handlers — no matter the position. Because of that, the Thunder’s full ceiling will be defined by the team’s ability to knock down open 3-pointers.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has elevated his game to an MVP-level, and Josh Giddey seems like one of the safest bets as a rising star in the NBA. Both but on a show internationally during the FIBA World Cup, and each showcased their innate ability to get teammates involved. Both Gilgeous-Alexander and Giddey are known for their point guard skills, which includes driving to the cup and scoring or dishing out. Sucking the defense in and running a drive-first offense could lead to many open 3-pointers for the Thunder.
Gilgeous-Alexander displayed just that for Team Canada, and there were plenty of beneficiaries. RJ Barrett was one of Canada’s main scorers because of the wide-open looks he got and the corner three’s he took. Oklahoma City needs shooters to step up in a big way like Barrett did in multiple games for Team Canada.
There are plenty viable options, but it’s up to them to step up and hit timely shots. Oklahoma City’s roster is crowded, and battles for playing time will be fierce. Rewarding kick-outs and knocking down 3-pointers will be a great way to earn minutes and stay on the court.
Isaiah Joe was a surprise breakout player for the Oklahoma City Thunder a season ago. The team didn’t expect much, signing him to a small contract with nothing to lose, and Joe blew expectations out of the water. Now, heading into year two, OKC needs Joe to replicate that same success — and maybe even take a leap forward.
Joe shot at a 40.9% clip a season ago, and even though his percentage dipped slightly towards the end of the season, proved he’s more than capable. His versatility on offense to shoot from more spots than just behind the line makes him even more valuable.
Davis Bertans, who shot lights out during FIBA play, is another easy candidate to help the Thunder out from downtown. He shot 39% from deep a season ago and has multiple NBA seasons shooting over 40% from long range. During the World Cup, he shot 39% from deep while averaging 14 points per game. He can earn a spot in the rotation with those numbers, and Oklahoma City’s defense is strong enough to help where he lacks.
Outside of Joe and Bertans, Oklahoma City has a handful of players capable of getting hot from behind the line, but needing consistency. Guys like Cason Wallace, Tre Mann, Aaron Wiggins and Ousmane Dieng will all be fighting for minutes and a spot in the rotation, and the easiest way to stand out will be 3-point shooting.
Oklahoma City has capable shooters on the roster, but to reach its full potential, they'll have to prove it. Every option will certainly get wide-open looks.
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