Reviewing Jerami Grant’s first season in Oklahoma City

Dec 27, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jerami Grant (9) dunks the ball against the Miami Heat during the first half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jerami Grant (9) dunks the ball against the Miami Heat during the first half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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OKC Thunder forward Jerami Grant blows past NBA Champion Harrison Barnes
Mar 5, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; OKC Thunder forward Jerami Grant (9) drives against Dallas Maverick forward Harrison Barnes (40) at American Airlines Center. Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

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.