OKC Thunder trade: 5 targets who solve OKC’s shooting woes

What should OKC do?

The Thunder’s lack of perimeter shooting is real and while Donovan is intent on running up and down the floor like headless chickens, OKC need shot makers badly. The wing combination of PG13, Ferguson, Hamidou Diallo, Jerami Grant, Deonte Burton, Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot and Abdel Nader will not get it done. Oklahoma City need to trade or waive at least one player and sign at least two players mentioned earlier.

Ferguson and Nader’s future

In an ideal world, the OKC Thunder would trade Ferguson, waive Nader and sign Bullock with Korver. TFerg is one of the most polarizing young guys on OKC’s roster, possessing elite athletic ability but a frustratingly inconsistent shot. Other than a 24-point outburst against the Lakers last year, Ferguson has done very little to suggest he is a contributor right now. His play through three games in 2018-19 certainly do not support the infatuation Donovan has for the 20 year-old.

Nader’s health is an issue. Since his arrival to OKC, the Egyptian has been dealing with knee soreness, costing him the entire training camp and opening games of the 2018-19 season. The 25 year-old is occupying a valuable roster spot which could be used on someone who can play now. The 60th pick in the 2017 draft hasn’t proven to be an NBA player and was cut from Boston after just one season.

Best Combination

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A combination of Korver with Bullock or Miles would raise the Thunder’s ceiling exponentially. Despite being 37 years-old, a shooter of Korver’s ability receiving passes from Russ would finally give OKC someone who will knock down jumpers. Bullock is a two-way player on a cheap deal and a reliable 3-point marksman. Miles is a serviceable defender, adds depth behind PG and is a willing shooter. OKC could do with either one.

However given Oklahoma City’s cap situation and lack of assets, the most realistic combination is Korver with Babbitt or Daniels. Cleveland want a future first round pick or recent first round pick while it rebuilds and Ferguson fits the requirements. Babbitt is unrestricted and Daniels is the 14th or 15th man on Phoenix’s roster. Should OKC clear enough space, Presti and co. could acquire all three.

Final Thought

With the 2018-19 season in its infancy, one must try to not overreact. Teams often start slow, develop chemistry throughout the year and ride winning streaks to emerge as contenders. However there is a gaping hole in OKC’s perimeter game and if the game plan stays the course, Oklahoma City need shooters who can actually shoot.

It seems unlikely a change is coming though. Donovan’s undeniable faith in Ferguson blinds him from the 20 year-old’s faults. He isn’t a great shooter from distance and makes fundamental defensive mistakes with alarming regularity. Despite this, TFerg will get plenty of chances due to Donovan’s infatuation.

Its unusual to see NBA teams give up on young talents, particularly at TFerg’s age. However, if the Thunder intend on winning now then they must commit to it. This half-way approach will just yield the same results – a first or second round exit. The Thunder need to get more shooting to truly compete.

Presti and Donovan need to work it out now. Time is of the essence.