OKC Thunder Roster Needs JaMychal Green Fills:
- high flyer
- great shooting efficiency
- adept in the paint and on the perimeter
- solid rebounding
- still growing his game
- toughness
- strong defender
Having been groomed in the Memphis Grizzlies system Green is well aware of the need for toughness and solid defense. At 27 he is a late bloomer, but he’s demonstrated strong work ethic and the ability to produce.
At least a few times this season a group of us were watching the game and on more than one occasion the inevitable “whoa” response occurred to a high flying move by JaMychal. Bottom line, Green is just reaching his prime and still exhibits room to improve.
Where Green Fits:
Green easily fits into the OKC Thunder group as a reserve big. The problem is he’s a restricted free agent which means the Grizzlies can match any offer.
Two options might exist in the form of a trade for Green though it’s doubtful Memphis will be eager to add Kyle Singler and Semaj Christon. That said, it wouldn’t be the first time Sam Presti has pulled off a trade for assets others thought were unmovable or not worth much in return.
Arguably the front court is the area the OKC Thunder have ample players in place. Several of the assets can play either the small or power forward position. To wit, Paul George, Patrick Patterson, Jerami Grant, Alex Abrines, Doug McDermott, Josh Huestis and Kyle Singler can play either forward role. This abundance of forward options may deter Presit from focusing in that area.
Moreover, the emergence of Josh Huestis offers an opportunity to test his viability on the varsity team. Expectations are for Abrines, Grant and McDermott to all experience significant growth this season. If just one of them takes a step it may provide the x factor the OKC Thunder need. If two improve, suddenly OKC become a true player in the West.
The big take away here is “if” Memphis relinquish Green’s restricted hold, he offers a proven entity versus youngsters who’ve yet to make that distinction.