OKC Thunder Draft: Breaking Down Team’s Top Choices
By David Ramil
Apr 4, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Wisconsin Badgers forward Frank Kaminsky (44) drives against Kentucky Wildcats forward Willie Cauley-Stein (15) in the first half of the 2015 NCAA Men
Frank Kaminsky
Reviewer: Joshua Lea (@joshualeaa)
Strengths: Obliviously, the first thing that jumps out is Kaminsky’s jump shot and offensive range. He can finish at the rim with either hand, post up on either block, shoot from the mid-range, consistently knock down 3’s and even attack you from off the dribble. He’s fundamentally sound, decent footwork and has a high enough basketball IQ to go by defenders and make a play. Kaminsky has great vision of the court and makes really good decisions with the ball, at his height he can see the floor really well and that can help in high-low situations. He could thrive in the NBA with his ability to stretch the floor. Kaminsky is a player that many coaches will want, as he can create mismatches with his outside shooting.
Weaknesses: Anytime you have a guy who is 7’1’ and 230 pounds, his overall athletic ability will be subpar. He has the talent and the raw ability to thrive, the question is will he use it in the NBA. Will he be a defensive liability? You would assume he could guard the 5 position, but, would be able to guard the 4? Can he deal with the quicker more versatile power forwards in this league? Also, one interesting notion is why was he not as productive early in his career at Wisconsin? Is he a late bloom? Will he adjust right away or will he ride the end of the bench for 5 seasons? These are all questions that I believe kaminsky is more than capable of conquering and overcoming.
How Does He Fit? Kaminsky could prove to be a valuable option off the bench. The problem is OKC has a player in Mitch McGary who ideally is the same player, but, Kaminsky probably is a better offensive option than McGary. However, Mitch has played well at times for OKC, the thunder could incorporate Kaminsky on the bench as a role player if Enes Kanter was to sign elsewhere. Drafting Frank Kaminsky comes with variables and what if’s; however, Kaminsky could thrive in Donovan’s system.
Next: Big Upside or Too Inconsistent?