OKC Thunder could find value in 2019 draft – Top 5 players selected 21st

The OKC Thunder select 21st this evening, but can they find talent so low? History reveals they can; TI presents the five best players selected 21st overall.

During their 11 year history, the OKC Thunder have made three selections 21st overall. They will make their fourth tonight. One player, Craig Brackins; never played for the franchise, he was part of a draft night deal. Another player, Mitch McGary; was an absolute bust, he was possibly Sam Presti’s worst selection during his tenure in Oklahoma City.

Finally, let’s address Presti’s latest 21st pick, Terrance Ferguson. Some pundits and fans are incredibly high on young T-Ferg, while others believe Ferguson is destined to be an average role player, at best.

Finding Value with the 21st pick:

It cannot be stated enough; teams do not need a lottery pick to find a difference maker during the draft. The Toronto Raptors just won a championship without a single lottery pick and became the first team to accomplish such a feat.

Note: this is based on title teams from 1966 forward when territorial picks were utilized.

Therefore, Thunder Nation should have confidence that Presti can find value later in the draft, the question is, will he find talent? Because he has missed on several recent selections.

This season’s draft pick could be used later on in a trade to acquire a proven veteran. Such as the deal the Utah Jazz pulled off yesterday involving 2018, 21st overall pick Grayson Allen. The Jazz shipped Allen and other pieces to Memphis for their franchise cornerstone Mike Conley.

With that, let’s jump into the five best players selected with the 21st overall pick, since the year 2000.