OKC Thunder December trade deadline series part 2 – Channing Frye

Strengths

Shooting

Like many in this series, Frye is a terrific perimeter shooter sporting career averages of 44.2 percent from the field and 38.8 percent from 3-point range. Now 35 years-old, the former NBA Champion doesn’t move like he once did somewhat limiting his offensive game but is still a productive player when called upon.

Following a trade to the Los Angeles Lakers last season from Cleveland, Frye posted a season high 19 points and four rebounds in the Lakers 122-112 win over the San Antonio Spurs. He finished the evening shooting 8-9 from the field and a perfect 3-3 from three.

Frye flashed some post moves on mismatches but his game is largely predicated on living on the perimeter.

Veteran Leadership

Frye is one of the most respected veterans in the league. Despite being traded by Cleveland last season and spending time with the Lakers, the Cavaliers elected to bring Frye back to Ohio to mentor its young core.

The veteran recently spoke on his value to the team and how it extends further than simply being on the basketball court.

"“My value comes from not taking a shot and giving our guys freedom of mind to think, ‘If I need Channing he’s always there.’ Like a fire extinguisher,” Frye said to Hayden Grove of Cleveland.com. “How many times have you ever seen a fire extinguisher used? Maybe once, but you’re like, ‘Damn, I’m so glad I had the fire extinguisher!’ Right?”"

Frye’s attitude to the business should also be revered. While veteran leadership requires leaders to show and provide steadiness during game time situations, Frye shows the perfect way to handle other facets of the NBA such as being traded.

He solidified himself as a player and fan favorite after he posted his reaction to being traded to the Lakers from Cleveland with a hilarious joke.

OKC’s locker room is already tight but adding another player like veteran is a win-win.

Weaknesses

Defense

Now in his twilight years as a player, Frye’s athleticism (or whatever little he had to begin with) has completely waned. He struggles to guard out in the open court, lacks lateral quickness and possesses no explosiveness off the floor. Frye leans heavily on anticipation but remains a solid team defender.

The 35 year-old isn’t a turnstile and tries on defense but as they say, father time catches up. Frye could be useful in spot minutes on a team with strong defensive acumen but is a liability when forced to match-up with small line-ups.