OKC Thunder player review: Abdel Nader – the untapped in house talent
Highlights:
There were certainly glimpses of what Paul George spoke to such as nine double-digit scoring nights. In addition, on seven occasions Nader grabbed between five and seven rebounds.
His best performance of the season occurred on December 28th versus the Phoenix Suns when he scored 18 points, grabbed five rebounds and hit two of his four 3-point attempts. In the video below we get a good look at his impeccable shooting form, gooseneck follow through and all as he swishes the 3-pointer.
In this next example, Nader shows his offensive versatility. T.J. Warren a smart defender closes out on him to eliminate the 3-point attempt or to force a highly contested shot. Nader wisely puts the ball on the floor and drives to the basket finishing through contact to score the basket picking up the and one at the line.
Another big game for Nader came in the Mecca on January 21st. This was arguably Nader’s most well rounded game as he registered 16 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and hit three of his four shots from deep. In the following clip, Nader shows off his high I.Q. and overall offensive assets.
First, he sets up Knicks big man Mitchell Robinson pulling him out toward the perimeter than drives past him and finishes with his left hand. Then he follows that up by driving and kicking to Jerami Grant prior to repositioning himself for a wide open 3-point attempt.
A key takeaway from Nader’s double-digit games is the OKC Thunder were 8-1 when he scored more than 10 points! If you’re Billy Donovan (or again, whoever is coaching next season), shouldn’t you be incorporating Nader more into the offense?