Thunderous Intentions
Fansided

OKC Thunder 30 for 30 Part 3: Detailing forward Jared Dudley

By Lawrence George

CLEVELAND, OH - MARCH 23: Jared Dudley #3 of the Phoenix Suns argues a call with referee referee Gary Zielinski #59 during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on March 23, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - MARCH 23: Jared Dudley #3 of the Phoenix Suns argues a call with referee referee Gary Zielinski #59 during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on March 23, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 4
Next
OKC Thunder target Jared Dudley
PHOENIX, AZ – MARCH 20: Jared Dudley #3 of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball against the Detroit Pistons on March 20, 2018 at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Strengths

Strong defense

Jared Dudley has been an underrated two-way player for his entire career and despite turning 33 this upcoming season, continues to be a strong defender. Surprisingly, Dudley posted a negative -0.8 net rating on a porous Phoenix Suns outfit that played next to no defense last season. The Suns were dead last in points allowed, conceding a horrible 113.3 points per game.

Since moving to power forward the past three seasons, Dudley has done well to adapt to his new role. At 6’7, 225 pounds, the veteran is undersized at the four spot but hustles and plays tough on the block. Dudley plays with heart and competes every single night.

Reliable 3-point shooting

More from Thunder News

Dudley brings a career 39.6 percent 3-PT stroke and would become Oklahoma City’s best shooter from deep. Paul George was OKC’s best perimeter sniper, converting on 40.1 percent of his attempts but has only broken 40 percent twice in his eight year career. As the roster stands, the Thunder have a glaring need for 3-PT marksmanship.

Oklahoma City averaged 30.2 attempts per game (11th), but only converted on 35.5 percent (23rd) of those attempts. Dudley shot his worst 3-PT percentage since his rookie season (36.3 percent) last year but was effective in catch and shoot situations, converting at a 37.7 percent clip. With Russell Westbrook, PG13 and Dennis Schroder expected to be the primary ball handlers, Dudley’s ability to hit in spot-up situations will keep defenses on tilt.

Locker room voice

After 11 years in the league, Dudley possesses a wealth of knowledge he willing shares with young guys new to the NBA. Prior to his trade to the Brooklyn Nets, Dudley spent two years mentoring Phoenix Suns young prospects.

Young guys love veterans who look out for them. Check out Dudley causing trouble in Phoenix’s game against Utah.

In a podcast (link here) with ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Dudley shares valuable insight into the importance of locker room leadership.

With Oklahoma City great Nick Collison retiring last year, the Thunder need another respected locker room voice to help lead the team. Raymond Felton, Westbrook and Steven Adams are the designated veteran voices expected to guide the team. Adding Dudley to the mix strengthens team chemistry.

Home/Thunder News