Big men revisited – OKC Thunder have a size problem with an easy fix

Kyle O’Quinn

Affectionately known as Black Santa, Kyle O’Quinn makes a return appearance to the list. In 4 games this season, he’s averaging 6.8 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 17.8 minutes. He’s shot the ball well from the field (58 percent) and from the stripe (71 percent).

O’Quinn’s game extends beyond his stats, bringing physicality reminiscent of the 80’s – early 90’s. Hustle, grit and competitiveness are three intangible qualities he brings every night.

In the video below, O’Quinn is called for a phantom foul on Detroit Pistons center Andre Drummond. But the pride he takes in his individual match up is something to behold. Check out his intensity on the block and his reaction to the call.

OKC need this fire down low. Aside from Adams, there is a distinct lack of physicality on the block. Anthony is an inconsistent rebounder at power forward and cleans the glass for 10 boards one night then retrieves a paltry 2 rebounds the next. The Thunder need consistency.

Offensively, O’Quinn was effective against Detroit. He finished with 15 points (5-7 FG, 3-3 FT), 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 steal in 24 minutes. It features an impressive and1 play on 7’3 giant Boban Marjanovic.

I understand he’s not a house hold name. However, veterans with his work ethic and effort breed success. O’Quinn is a valued locker room voice and highly respected by his peers. His level of swag is off the charts.

Endless Possibilities

Oklahoma City is still finding their second unit. When Adams sits, Donovan deploys Jerami Grant, Patrick Patterson or Carmelo Anthony at the 5 to mixed results. Patterson is the most adept to playing the 5 as he is larger than Anthony and Grant but none of them are great rebounders. Anthony is the best rebounder in the group but his effort inside isn’t always there.

With coach Billy Donovan working to stagger minutes of his stars, O’Quinn inserts as a genuine back-up center. Here, Donovan can mix and match accordingly. An ideal second unit would look like this:

• O’Quinn, Patterson, George, Alex Abrines, Raymond Felton

You could use Grant and Huestis interchangeably at the 3 and 4 where they’re best suited. The verdict is still out whether Abrines can guard at NBA level. He owns a nice stroke from downtown but he is yet to work out defensively.

Formation of the Beard Bros?

The arrival of O’Quinn could cause a fashion shift for Adams. Instead of his trademark mustache, they could form the ‘bearded bro’s’. OKC could reintroduce the twin towers concept against perimeter teams as O’Quinn is capable of playing the 4.

The Thunder could deploy a big line-up.

• Adams, O’Quinn, Melo/Roberson, George, Westbrook

OKC could use Melo and Roberson interchangeably depending on the circumstance. Defensively, Dre is a better option. PG, Dre and Melo are steady rebounders but lack the physicality to bang down low. Deploying O’Quinn as a rebounding specialist along side Adams would decrease opposing teams opportunities to grab offensive boards. Adams and O’Quinn are both excellent offensive rebounders and would cause a number of issues for opposing defenses.

Bringing the Thunder on screens

Aside from Adams, Oklahoma City lack legitimate screen setters. A strong pick is one of the most undervalued skills in basketball and largely goes unnoticed by fans. With the firepower OKC possess, you want your big man to open the floor.

This is what you want to see:

These types of plays predicate Thunder basketball. O’Quinn’s physical nature will open the lane for Russ, PG or Melo to drive or shoot. Santa also possesses a serviceable shot, making him a viable option in pick and pop and pick and roll situations. O’Quinn’s skillset is perfect for what OKC needs.