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OKC Thunder exit interviews: Highlights from Huestis, Johnson, Singler and Corey Brewer

By Alex Mcewen

CHARLOTTE, NC - JANUARY 13: Dakari Johnson #44, Kyle Singler #15, Patrick Patterson #54 and Nick Collison #4 of the Oklahoma City Thunder stand for the National Anthem before the game against the Charlotte Hornets on January 13, 2018 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - JANUARY 13: Dakari Johnson #44, Kyle Singler #15, Patrick Patterson #54 and Nick Collison #4 of the Oklahoma City Thunder stand for the National Anthem before the game against the Charlotte Hornets on January 13, 2018 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – APRIL 23: Dakari Johnson #44 of the Oklahoma City Thunder shoots the ball before the game against the Utah Jazz in Game Four of Round One of the 2018 NBA Playoffs on April 23, 2018NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images)
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – APRIL 23: Dakari Johnson #44 of the Oklahoma City Thunder shoots the ball before the game against the Utah Jazz in Game Four of Round One of the 2018 NBA Playoffs on April 23, 2018NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Dakari Johnson

The OKC Thunder drafted Johnson in the second round of the 2015 NBA draft. Johnson spent two full seasons in the D/G-league before making the jump to the big league. Johnson had a typical season for a second-round pick, sporadic playing time with flashes of potential.

Let’s proceed to Dakari’s most notable quotes.

On how this season compared to his time in the D/G-league

"It was good. You know, I really enjoyed myself just being around it every day and just learning from the best and having really good vets around me. It definitely lived up to my expectations."

This is not a surprising answer from Dakari most NBA players dream of their first season in the league starting at a very young age. Regardless of how the first season pans out, you’ll be pressed to find a first-year player disappointed with the experience.

On his time spent with Nick Collison

"It was great. You know, Nick was my vet. He did extra work with me, whether it be cycling class, hot yoga, extra three on three. He was there all the way. It was great to have him, you know, just keep me locked in throughout the whole year."

Throughout the duration of exit interviews, Nick Collison came up, time after time. Collison did not provide many minutes on the court this season. However, he played an immeasurable roll in the locker room, during practice, and off the court. Hence, if Nick indeed retires OKC will be hard pressed to replace Mr. Thunder’s veteran presence.

On his first start against the Los Angeles Clippers

"I remember a lot. That was my first start, real meaningful minutes, and it was just a great opportunity for me just to go out there and compete and help the team."

On November, 10th 2017 Dakari Johnson got his first NBA start in place of Steven Adams who missed the game with a calf injury. Dakari went up against a then stacked LA Clippers front-line of Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan.

Johnson more than held his ground against the former all-stars. Maybe it was due to lack of scouting or perhaps Johnson has a future in this league as a backup center. Taking the OKC Blue to the number one overall during the 2016-17 season speaks to Johnson’s potential. In due time we shall see how Johnson develops.

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