OKC Thunder 30 for 30, Part 30 via T.I. fan request – O.J. Mayo
Final thoughts
Something must be said for former lottery picks as these players were once coveted as the best young prospects in the country. Mayo had the world at his feet and was touted as being one of the elite scorers in a top heavy 2008 draft class.
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It wasn’t necessarily his play on court that caused him to drop out of the league but his decision making off it that lead to his eventual demise. Now 30 years old, one wonders if he has learned anything away from the game.
With that being said, former number three overall picks don’t come around very often and his skill set is suited to today’s NBA. 3-point shooting is at a premium and teams are scouring for as many perimeter threats as possible.
Oklahoma City are very light on perimeter marksmanship and a shooter of Mayo’s caliber could be useful should the Thunder take a risk. Given their affinity for reparation projects (ala Dion Waiters, Enes Kanter and now Nerlens Noel), giving the eight year veteran a shot wouldn’t be outside the realms of possibility.
However given the Thunder’s crowded wing rotation full of young upcoming talents, there appears to be no room for a one-way veteran shooting guard. Should the Thunder make a trade and roster spots become available, OKC are likely to use it on a two-way guy or prospects taken in this years draft.
Next. Offseason report card – Grading every Sam Presti move. dark
If Mayo can prove he can play, he is worth a look as he has a history of performing on an NBA stage. Judging by his recent performances overseas, that seems like a long shot.