OKC Thunder Draft: Breaking Down Team’s Top Choices
By David Ramil
Apr 4, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Wisconsin Badgers forward Sam Dekker (15) reacts against the Kentucky Wildcats in the second half of the 2015 NCAA Men
Sam Dekker
Reviewer: Jeremy Lambert (@jeremylambert88)
Strengths: He’s a role player. Yes, this is a strength for the Oklahoma City Thunder as the team is already loaded with stars. Dekker is a low maintenance player who can provide solid minutes off the bench. When drafting in the lottery, you’re probably looking for more than a role player, which is why I wouldn’t be opposed to trading back for someone like Dekker. He’s has a very good handle for someone his size and is very smart with the ball, rarely forcing bad passes or shots. Defensively, he can guard multiple positions without much of a problem. He loves to compete and isn’t going to get out-hustled on the court.
Weaknesses: His shooting is his biggest weakness. He’s not a bad shooter, but he’s also not a lights out guy. He’s inconsistent with his shot and can become extremely frustrating to watch when he’s missing open shots. He’s also not very good from the free throw line.
How Does He Fit? At #14, it’s hard to justify taking Dekker over better players, but if the Thunder can trade back, Dekker becomes a low-risk draft pick that the team can use. If Kyle Singler isn’t re-signed, Dekker is an ideal replacement to back-up Kevin Durant at the small forward position. If he becomes a great outside shooter, he’s a steal for the team. If he remains inconsistent with his shot, he’s still a useful role player.
Next: High Risk, High Reward