Oklahoma City Thunder: Top 10 2017 Free Agency Targets

Mar 18, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) celebrates with center Steven Adams (12) after his three pointer against the Philadelphia 76ers during the fourth quarter at Wells Fargo Center. The Oklahoma City Thunder won 111-97.Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

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5. Steven Adams

Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

Then, the Oklahoma City Thunder should consider resigning him. Although, it would not be in the best interest of the Thunder to offer him an extension during the season, Steven Adams should be high on their list.

Adams showed one important thing to Thunder fans everywhere. He can defend the pick-and-roll. This was the main reason the Thunder had a 3-1 lead on the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference finals.

The Thunder were switching on every pick and roll. Adams was doing a great job on these switches guarding Steph Curry and Klay Thompson. It was not until late in the series when Curry and Klay began to iso Adams on the perimeter, which gave him some trouble.

Adams defensive abilities are huge. If he can switch pick and rolls this takes pressure off the guards to stick to their man. The Thunder under Scott Brooks and Billy Donavan have a huge tendency to switch on pick and roles. Unfortunately, Enes Kanter is not skilled enough to defend guards in these switches and neither is Micth McGary. Combine that with Ibaka’s departure and Adams return becomes pivotal for the Thunder.

Next: 4. Gaurd Play

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