Thunderous Intentions
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Ten prospects for the Thunder to watch during the Draft

By Tony Heim

Mar 17, 2017; Tulsa, OK, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs forward Semi Ojeleye (33) reacts during the second half against the USC Trojans in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at BOK Center. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 17, 2017; Tulsa, OK, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs forward Semi Ojeleye (33) reacts during the second half against the USC Trojans in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at BOK Center. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 1, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Sindarius Thornwell (0) reacts after making a basket against the Gonzaga Bulldogs in the second half in the semifinals of the 2017 NCAA Men’s Final Four at University of Phoenix Stadium. Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 1, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Sindarius Thornwell (0) reacts after making a basket against the Gonzaga Bulldogs in the second half in the semifinals of the 2017 NCAA Men’s Final Four at University of Phoenix Stadium. Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Sindarius Thornwell, Shooting Guard

Sindarius Thornwell is a photocopy of Frank Mason, just at a different position. Thornwell is one of the oldest players in the Draft, one of the best players in college last season and one of the second round prospects who could conceivably play in the NBA right away.

Related Story: Sindarius Thornwell prospect review

Oklahoma City has to consider trading for Thornwell’s rights if he slips in tonight’s Draft. The 22-year old is a solid two-way player that has the size and length to guard multiple positions at the next level. At South Carolina Thornwell developed immensely each year – a sign of a basketball-focused prospect – something the Thunder tend to value.

Thornwell’s value will eventually come down to whether or not he can consistently hit from three. He hit over 39% this past season, 5% more than his career average, but whether or not he can stretch that out to NBA range is a big question mark. Currently OKC is spending countless hours developing nearly all of their player’s jumpers so throwing Thornwell in the mix wouldn’t be a big change for the franchise.

That reason alone may be why they stay away from Thornwell tonight. Oklahoma City needs floor spacing more than they need a defensively-minded guard. But if they get that shooter at #21, don’t be surprised if Presti makes a move for Sindarius Thornwell later in the night.

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