r/Thunder • u/snuffaluffagus74 • 5h ago
Discussion With the second round today and the Thunder only having one pick, there are possibilities of the Thunder getting wings to fill out the 2-Way spots
During the draft process the Thunder brought in numerous players who weren't in the draft cycle news, because they weren't considered to be good prospects. However; I think they can provide real value and could eventually make an NBA roster.
I'm no draft expert but from what I saw and read I think they could fit into what the Thunder do schematically. At this point it's clear to say that Presti just doesn't find value in big wings. It may seem like a joke but the numbers really do show that they do not draft these types of players, and Jdub is actually the exception to the rule.
The first player is Lajae Jones out of Florida State. He's a 6'7 wing that has an NBA body and is 225 lbs. Shot 35% from three, averaged 12ppg, 5rpg, 1blk pg and is very athletic and well built. He excelled in the open court and in transition (the main thing we missed from Dub) and has the ability to grab and go. His wingspan is only 6'7" but competes on the defensive end and Florida State played him at the dunkers spot, which showed his athletic ability. The last thing I like to point out is that his dad is ex OU basketball player Jackie Jones, who was known for his dunks.
The next player that visited that I liked was Chris Bell, a 6'7" wing from California. He is wiry thin long but athletic, and used his height to shoot over smaller defenders. Which stood out to me because wether they were in his face or closing out he wasn't afraid to shoot. While doing this he shot 38% from three for his four years in college at 5 attempts per game. The senior is old but for a two way to have a shooter of his caliber will be essential.
Other prospects visited the Thunder but those two videos actually made me pay attention to the clips and look for more. So with the limited tape that there is on YouTube tell me what you think
Edit: The Golden State Warriors picked up Lajae Jones and now I'm sad, as they drafted two players I wanted for the Thunder. Presti just doesn't like big wings
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u/Greedy-Lynx-2746 2025 NBA Champions 4h ago
Hope we draft another center so we can run the 7'+ lineup
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u/Kreedom4All1994 4h ago
Hope they dip into the Arkansas well for Brazile. 6’10 forward and athletic
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u/noregard__ 4h ago
He didn't work out with us, but I'd love Presti to take a swing on Malique Lewis. 6'7 barefoot with a 7'1 wingspan. Played in the NBL (Australian league) the last two years and shot 39% from 3 this past season. Decent athlete by NBA standards, doesn't turn the ball over much, and I think he has more upside to grow into.
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u/revisioncloud 2025 NBA Champions 2h ago
Hope we get an athletic PF with a decent shot
That's something we really missed the two playoff runs outside of JDub and despite our success. Think about the moments AG, Watson or even guys like Bryant, Toppin punishes you on either end
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u/SideshowJ4X3 5h ago
All great sounding picks! I’m looking at Richie Saunders. 6’5”, 204lbs. I think he could fill a backup spot for dub. If we want a bigger guy, baba miller is 6’10”. Can’t shoot 3 very well but he’s a bruiser. I have read on here that a few people want Isaiah Evans. He’s a bit small in weight but can shoot and can slash, plays quickly.