This OKC roster is going to look a little bit different this year. After rescinding Svi Mykhailiuk’s qualifying offer, trading Moses Brown, losing Tony Bradley and gaining Derrick Favors, the rotations will look just a little different. Add in the fact that they drafted four new rookies to their roster. Here are predictions on how OKC rookies/second year players will perform this year.
Giddey will average some healthy numbers this year given his skillset and opportunities. His abnormal size from the point guard position will give him an advantage on the boards and possibly some nice block rates on defense. Despite the possible defensive stats, he needs to work on his defensive IQ and athleticism. The lack of athleticism isn’t necessarily a bad thing (look at Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic) due to his smooth offensive game and savvy skillset. He can finish at the rim, create plays for teammates and can crash the glass. This year, he’ll be given every opportunity to showcase his skills on this relatively bad OKC squad. Predicted stats: 9.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.7 blocks a game. Shooting splits: 39% FG, 32% 3-PT, 65% FT.
Roby had a nice breakout season last year when he averaged 8.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.6 blocks a game. Roby is an athletic all-around player who can give you nice stat-lines. He can hit the three, play decent defense, drive and even create plays for teammates. Per 36 mins, he averaged 13.5 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.3 steals and 0.9 blocks a game. Since the departure of Brown, Bradley and possibly Muscala, Roby is looking like a major winner here. He will more than likely see an increase in minutes so don’t be surprised when he starts putting up some sexy stat-lines due to his increased role. Don’t forget, he’s also the only main center they have on roster besides Favors and Muscala. Predicted stats: 11.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.0 steals, 1.1 blocks. Shooting splits: 49% FG, 30% 3-PT, 75% FT.
Poku had a decent rookie season that saw him average 8.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 0.4 steals and 0.9 blocks a game. He shot 34% FG, 28% 3-PT and 74% from the line. Despite the mediocre splits and stats, he looks like a another version of Giddey: a slower, playmaking forward who can fill the stat sheet when given the minutes. He’s only going to get better as he continues his career with the Thunder and seeing him average better numbers this year isn’t out of the question. There’s also no competition for minutes besides Giddey so there’s no excuse. Predicted Stats: 10.1 points, 6.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, .5 steals, 1.1 blocks. Shooting splits: 40% FG, 31% 3-PT, 71% FT.
