Josh Huestis Summer League analysis
By Will Brewer
Josh Huestis’ play in the Summer League showed his continuing growth as a player and may have earned him a role for the Thunder this season
2017 Oklahoma City Summer League stats: 15.0 points, 6.8 rebounds, 49% field goal percentage
Summer League Overview
Josh Huestis made the most out of his opportunity to shine in this year’s Summer League. Huestis showed that he has made significant strides in his offensive game and continued to impress defensively by his ability to guard multiple positions.
He struggled out the gate in his first Summer League game, only scoring 7 points on 3 of 14 shooting from field against the Pistons. It was clear, however, that Huestis was going to be one of the focal points of the Thunder Summer League.
He seemed to get extremely comfortable in his next appearance, scoring his summer league high 26 points in a win against the Knicks. He rounded out summer play with 11 points against the Mavericks and 16 points against the Pacers. Huestis showed growth in his overall game and that he can fit into the Thunder’s style.
Growth
Josh Huestis was a first round pick of the Thunder in 2014 from Stanford. He came into the league as a power forward and a defensive specialist. At 6’7″ and 215 pounds, The Thunder wanted Huestis to make the switch from power forward to small forward. Huestis would have to make big improvements on his perimeter game offensively and defensively.
Huestis has added 15 pounds of muscle since joining the Thunder and has made the improvements necessary to expand his game. He joined the Oklahoma City Blue and has expanded his game each season. Defensively, Huestis has shown the ability to guard multiple positions whether it is inside or on the perimeter. Offensively, Huestis has made huge strides shooting triples and putting the ball on the floor to make plays. In Summer League play, Huestis was put in pick-and-pop situations and in situations where he could create for himself.
Potential Fit
The Thunder could have Josh Huestis play a similar role to how they play Jerami Grant. Huestis could provide another big, athletic body to defend on the perimeter. He would also be another guy that the Thunder could move around in today’s ‘positionless’ basketball. Offensively, Huestis would be able to play multiple spots on the floor and help space the floor with his improving perimeter game.
The Thunder had a big offseason adding two-way players such as Paul George and Patrick Patterson. They have made a significant push for championship contention. Huestis may struggle to find heavy minutes for the Thunder, however, the opportunity to learn from a guy like Paul George could help Josh Huestis tremendously.