Nerlens Noel notes growth and free agency in OKC Thunder exit interview
Nerlens Noel spoke at his OKC Thunder exit interview noting his intention to come back a monster next season and while he loved the team the ‘but’ hung in the air regarding his offseason option.
Having played on three different teams in his short career it seemed Nerlens Noel finally found a fit with the OKC Thunder in his fourth season. With the 76ers Noel fell victim to the rookie jinx of missing his rookie season due to injury and was in the news for poor decisions off the court. In Dallas, Noel never found his footing and struggled mightily with head coach Rick Carlisle. In fact, his most notable memory in Dallas centered on turning down a very fair contract and eating media room hotdogs (at halftime).
Finally, in OKC Noel not only fit his role but seemed to enjoy being with his team more than any previous season. He played in 77 games which is the most of any year and only four shy of the last two seasons combined.
Nerlens Noel says he enjoyed OKC "loved the team" but will leave FA situation to his agent which isn't quite the "I want to return" endorsement - then again he's probably looking to get paid! #ThunderUp
— Thunderous Intentions (@thunderousint) April 25, 2019
Several times this season the center proved to be an x-factor for the Thunder reserves and while his fit was obvious that may be a moot point as Noel enters the summer with a player option. Noel implied he was leaving things up to his agent, but the overriding feeling is hell opt out and regardless of his enjoyment of being with the Thunder he may have priced himself right out of contention for a return given the Thunder salary sheet.
Noel finished his year averaging 4.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 13.7 minutes per game. In his first playoff appearance, he averaged 4.8 points and 3.8 rebounds in 12.1 points in 12.1 minutes per game.
To clarify Noel has an option on his contract but remember he gave up large offer in Dallas & ended up having to come at a discount, so it's reasonable to assume he'll opt out. #ThunderUp
— Thunderous Intentions (@thunderousint) April 25, 2019
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In terms of next steps clearly, free agency looms and while Noel praised the team and enjoyment of playing with Westbrook, George, and co. his comments (at least in my opinion) point to the likelihood of his departure.
As for what Noel’s growth although these are the same sentiments he’s made in past seasons it does feel like this time his maturity level coincides with his commitment to improving.
"“But I definitely want to have a very, very big summer, regardless, working on a lot of my weaknesses, and try to become that much better over the summer, have no weaknesses when I come back, build up my body, and just try to come back a monster.” – Nerlens Noel"
Specifically, Noel stated he plans on bulking up via the weight room to add strength to his still very slight frame. Additionally, Noel hopes to work on developing his offensive game with shot options.
Next. Lightning Report: Failure to adapt cost Thunder season. dark
Noel’s interview can be viewed in its entirety above.