NBA Free Agency: Aron Baynes well suited for OKC Thunder

BOSTON, MA - MAY 27: Aron Baynes #46 of the Boston Celtics is introduced before Game Seven of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2018 NBA Playoffs between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics on May 27, 2018 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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Strengths:

Baynes’ biggest strength is just that – his strength. He’s the guy who isn’t afraid of contact, isn’t afraid of being put on a poster and is almost always the first guy on the floor for a loose ball. Not to mention his surprising ability to shoot from mid-range if left open.

Baynes averaged six points per game on 47 percent shooting, including a stunning 26-point game against Brooklyn. He also grabbed 14 rebounds in his signature game against the Nets and averaged a career high 5.4 boards on the season. He also stayed healthy throughout the year, appearing in all but one game of the entire season and starting 67 of them.

Weaknesses:

While Baynes doesn’t have any glaring weaknesses to his game, he isn’t particularly great at anything. He’s a good defender, a good rebounder and a decent shooter from mid-range. While he’s considered good at those things, he isn’t a complete game changer. Most other players at his position in the NBA is just as good if not better.

For the Thunder or any other team, Baynes would be a place holder while the starting center takes a breather. Like a wad of gum to fix leaky pipe, Baynes’ game isn’t pretty, but he gets the job done for the time being. He would do well behind Steven Adams in lieu of Dakari Johnson or a smaller lineup.

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