OKC Thunder trade primer: The Thunder join the New York firesale
Noah Vonleh
2018-19 – $1,512,601
2019-20 – UFA
This could be a flash in the pan scenario but Noah Vonleh has performed exceptionally well this season after being left in Free Agency limbo last Summer. The 23-year-old has expanded his game by adding a 3-point shot to his excellent rebounding and a huge motor. After being thrown a lifeline with the Knicks, Vonleh is making every post a winner.
While it remains to be seen whether his shooting numbers are legitimate, Vonleh is averaging 8.6 points and 8.6 rebounds on 46.8 percent shooting and 36 percent from three. The big man entered the NBA has a hustle power forward-center hybrid whose game was predicated on the block. Vonleh appears to have worked extensively on his jumper as he has attempted more threes this season than ever before.
In his best performance of the season, Vonleh posted a career-high 22 points (9-18 shooting, 3-11 from three, 1-2 free throws), 13 rebounds and two blocks in the Knicks 109-99 loss to the Brooklyn Nets.
Vonleh helps two of Oklahoma City’s greatest needs – 3-point shooting and rebounding. While OKC will need to renegotiate his contract next Summer, the big man solidifies the Thunder’s front line.
Potential Trade
This deal trades a veteran piece for an upcoming young big man whose game is blossoming across
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the court. While the Thunder will miss Patrick Patterson’s 3-point shooting, Vonleh is a long term play who could be retained for a cheap contract. The Knicks receive a second as compensation.
Final Thought
With New York firesale well underway, the two targets above are gettable, low budget options who can contribute on both ends of the floor. While Dotson would be a better option given his contract, Vonleh would do wonders for OKC’s frontcourt. The Thunder have been inconsistent on the glass and Vonleh would certainly clean up some of the team’s issues.
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OKC is right up against the cap but given New York’s position of hoarding picks and rebuilding, the Thunder must take advantage of a volatile situation in the Big Apple.