Next Season Scouting Report: Steven Adams

Steven Adams is coming into this upcoming season with a ton of upside. He’ll have the chance, again, to be the main defensive presence, provide valuable minutes, and possibly elevate his game. Adams has worked on his offensive moves to go along with his defensive tenacity. Each year since his inception into the Thunder lineup, he’s improved, getting better and better.

There are multiple factors that have contributed to his growth. One, his relationship with veteran and fellow lost-post player Nick Collison has certainly made the rounds via social media. Collison is likely a steadying influence on the raw New Zealander, guiding him on the nuances of life on- and off-the court. And, of course, there’s this…

Two, Adams’ overall work ethic and dedication have played a huge factor in his offensive improvement. There’s no denying his overall toughness and commitment, on full display during this season versus the Clippers when he shot a free throw with just his left hand after breaking his right (shooting) hand:

In 2013-14, Adams averaged just over three points in 14 minutes per game. Last season, Adams took advantage of injuries leading to increased minutes and upped his average to 7.7 points per game while shooting 50 percent from the floor. His rebounding went from four boards a game during his rookie season to seven last season. His blocks, steals, and person fouls have increased each year as well.

That’s not bad at all and, as most superstars will attest, the key to NBA success is finding ways to improve. Michael Jordan didn’t start out winning championships. Kevin Durant didn’t win the MVP and a scoring title as a rookie. These players got better by focusing on both their strengths and their weaknesses. It’s clear that Adams is doing that but what will be interesting to see is if he can maintain this level of production with a healthy roster next season. 

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I expect Adams to be the defensive anchor on the second unit. If Serge Ibaka or Enes Kanter gets into foul trouble early, Adams will be the first player off the bench and responsible for not picking up quick fouls (a definite problem area). Silly fouls have been a thorn in the Thunder’s side for the last three seasons. That’s going to be Adams’ main area of concern, to decrease foul trouble while increasing his scoring average and rebounding percentage to around 10 and 10 per game.

Let’s assume Adams becomes a double-double threat for a moment. Not only would you have to be concerned with the massive first unit, as well as Dion Waiters, and Anthony Morrow, you would now have to have a low-post option to defend and frustrate the big seven-footer. For most teams in the NBA, depth that vast to combat the weapons that the Thunder has on their roster

I would expect Steven Adams to maintain his current role and keep his average around the same. He most likely won’t play 25 minutes a game as he did last season. He’ll be a defensive presence in the post for the second unit giving him to the opportunity to play alongside Mitch McGary, Kyle Singler, Anthony Morrow, and D.J. Augustin. Which means on tough nights he’ll be in position to rebound and score easily off put-backs and keep the second unit offense afloat.

Aside from all that Adams is a likable guy. I got the chance to meet him for media day last season and asked him a few questions. One question I asked was a non-basketball related question:“Who would you want to play you in a movie?” His response, “Tom Selleck.” Now, he had just started sporting that wicked ‘stache that day.

Sep 29, 2014; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder center Steven Adams (12) poses during media day at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

That kind of a cut-up character is a breath of fresh air in this league. One would assume that Adams will remain a fan-favorite for the Oklahoma City Thunder for years to come. Next season will be an interesting one for Steven Adams.

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