Welcome to OKC Thunder – In the news for Sunday, June 18 featuring topical daily news on your favorite team and the NBA.
As the OKC Thunder prepare for the impending 2017 NBA Draft this coming week (Thursday June 22) they do so knowing there has been a big shake up atop the draft board.
It’s not necessarily surprising news Celtics GM Danny Ainge made a huge move to trade away the top pick to the 76ers. What is a surprise is what he traded for –just picks (or at least the initial reports are saying that). Hence, finalization of the trade and details will likely be made on Monday June 19th.
Celtics and 76ers make big trade atop NBA Draft Board:
First of all, let’s be clear the deal is extremely confusing in terms of all the moving parts. Furthermore, there is a great chance Boston won’t even keep these picks as they are intent on adding a proven talent along the lines of Jimmy Butler, Gordon Hayward of Paul George’s ilk — or even two of those three.
For now The Vertical’s Adrian Wojnarowski offers the best take on what the deal is:
"Philadelphia is planning to send Boston the No. 3 overall pick in Thursday’s draft and the 2018 first-round pick that the Los Angeles Lakers owe the Sixers, league sources told The Vertical. The Celtics will receive the Lakers’ pick in 2018 if it falls between Nos. 2-5, league sources said.If that pick doesn’t convey to the Celtics, the Sixers will send a 2019 first-round pick via the Sacramento Kings to Boston, league sources said.Fultz traveled to Philadelphia for a workout and meeting with the Sixers on Saturday, a visit Fultz’s camp wouldn’t have likely allowed unless there was a promise of a deal between Boston and Philadelphia. The Lakers were interested in getting a deal to secure the No. 1 pick to take Fultz, league sources said, but didn’t have the depth of assets that Philadelphia possessed."
Moving forward the deal as is doesn’t do much to affect the OKC Thunder since they reside in the West (unless of course Gordon Hayward moves to Boston). But, it sure does add intensity and excitement to draft night this coming Thursday.
Terrance Ferguson’s Mom hopes for OKC Berth:
Closer to home intriguing prospect Terrance Ferguson continues his workouts. For those unaware Ferguson decided to forego the NCAA electing to play in Australia instead last season. In addition, Ferguson is a Tulsa, Oklahoma native and his mother is hoping he lands with her favorite team as per Brett Dawson of The Oklahoman
"But there might be a little extra emotion if Ferguson lands with the Thunder, which holds the No. 21 pick."
"“My favorite team!” Holdman said in a phone interview on Thursday with a long, happy laugh. “My favorite teeeeeeam!”"
Terrance Ferguson Draft Prospect Preview:
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Consequently, TI scribe Rich Condon is also keen on Ferguson citing him as a sleeper and under rated prospect in the 2017 draft.
"Like I said, not much in the way of statistics. However, Ferguson, though extremely raw, has a lot of upside. What stands out the most to me is Ferguson’s willingness to compete. He’s not shy about finding a body to box out, and he’s a willing defender.He’ll need to add some weight in order to survive in the NBA. However, he’s got a good frame for a shooting guard in the NBA, coupled with explosive athleticism (highlighted by a 38″ max vertical). His aggressive nature and quick lateral movement, with the proper tutelage, could make him a pest on the defensive end."
Furthermore, make sure you check out all the Thunderous Intentions Draft Prospect previews as the writing team covers over 60 intriguing athletes. The prospects TI selected utilizes Draft Express ranking order. Watch for these especially relevant prospect previews as they continue over the next few days and culminate with the TI Editor’s Annual Mock Draft.
That’s if for OKC Thunder – In the news, June18. Enjoy your Sunday, and we’ll meet you back here tomorrow.