NBA Offseason: Kawhi Leonard is key to upgrading the OKC Thunder roster

Russell Westbrook, OKC Thunder (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images)
Russell Westbrook, OKC Thunder (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images)
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OKC Thunder trade target Lou Williams
SANTA MONICA, CA – JUNE 25: 6th Man Award winner Lou Williams speaks onstage at the 2018 NBA Awards at Barkar Hangar on June 25, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Turner Sports)

Lou Williams

The two-time Sixth Man of the Year is a professional scorer. After averaging career highs in points (22.6) and assists (5.3) last year, Williams became the first player in NBA history to average at least 20 points per game in their 13th season.

LouWill scored a career high 50 points (16-27 from the field, 8-16 3-PT, 10-10 FT) in 35 minutes.

Williams would upgrade Oklahoma City’s bench considerably. His propensity to put the ball in the hole will save OKC when the starters sit. Oklahoma City’s bench ranked 25th in field goal percentage (43.5) and 29th in points per game (26.4).

When OKC’s starters sit, the Thunder simply can’t score. Despite their offensive ineptitude, Oklahoma City managed to finish even in plus-minus on the back of strong defense.

The Thunder must prioritize acquiring Sweet Lou.