Jerami Grant came to the OKC Thunder at the beginning of the season in a deal that sent Ersan Ilyasova to the Philadelphia 76ers. Praise Sam Presti.
Jerami Grant’s first season in Oklahoma City was a success. Grant didn’t carve out a concrete role in the rotation, nor did he prove that he can be a successful small forward in the NBA. But what he did do is show how a 6’9 physical specimen can be both an elite rim protector and a floor spacer on the other end.
Grant’s statistics this season don’t tell the story when it comes to the 23-year old. In his 80 appearances for the Thunder he only played 19 minutes a game. The former 76er averaged a mere four shots a game – over half were attempted without taking a dribble. But when you watch the film, Grant checks off every box you want to see out of a stretch forward.
Ultimately that’s what this season was about: finding pieces that can compliment Russell Westbrook. Grant did that. He’s never going to average 20 points a game, but he can (and hopefully will) be the perfect side piece for Russ.
Don’t believe me? Or do you believe me, but want a little more reassurance? Join the party as we look at how this season made Jerami Grant one of the three most important prospects in Oklahoma City.