Meet the newest member of the OKC Thunder: big man Mike Muscala
By Alex Mcewen
Career high points:
On March 28, 2018, Muscala put together the highest scoring game of his career, thanks to an astronomical shooting performance. MM shot 8-10 from the floor, including 6-8 field goals from the perimeter, and he went perfect from the foul, 4-4. Unfortunately, the Timberwolves bested the Hawks 126-114.
Career high rebounds:
Dating back to the 2014-15 season the Thunder have hung their hat on rebounding, from 14-15 onward Oklahoma City has not finished outside the top five in rebounds per game, they often ranked first. On Mar 31, 2018, Musky pulled down 13 boards, helping the Hawks gain a 43-38 rebounding edge over the Pistons in a 105-95 defeat.
*Rebounding Video is currently unavailable
Career high assists:
Starting center Steven Adams has a strong passing game, in rare instances when he facilitates the offense Oklahoma City has found success. Muscala is not as skilled as Adams in the passing department, but thanks to former head coach Mike Budenholzer he did further develop that area of his game. MM has tied his career high of five assists on multiple occasions, with the latest occurring on December 2, 2018.
Career high 3-pointers:
Heading into the offseason, the most prominent roster upgrade the Thunder needed was shooting. In theory, Muscala will help space the floor and alleviate pressure from All-Stars Paul George and Russell Westbrook. The most three’s Musky has drained in a single match is five, on March 11, 2018.
With the open looks, Muscala will receive in Oklahoma City, and as a career 37.3 percent wide-open 3-point shooter, It would be refreshing to witness MM knock down five treys in a Thunder jersey.
Career high blocks:
Adding defense is never a bad look for an NBA squad. Considering how the West has loaded up this free agency period, Oklahoma City will accept additional defensive help. While Muscala is an established offensive player, his defense is often overlooked.
He is not a world beater defensively, but he did record four blocks on February 28, 2015. If Muscala can recapture his defensive identity, he and Nerlens Noel could form a nice tandem off the bench for Oklahoma City.
*Blocks Video currently unavailable
Over the last three years Mike Muscala has shot 43.2% from the left corner 3 and 37.2% from the right corner 3. Just park him in the corner and let him shoot in OKC
— Shai Gilgreatness-Alexander (@Jhickness9) July 1, 2019
Final Thoughts:
On the surface, Muscala fills a need in Oklahoma City. However, when the Thunder added Paterson back in 2016, and Morris via the buyout market late in 2019, many pundits assumed the same thing. Until Muscala plays a few games for the Thunder, his actual fit will remain unknown. By the time December rolls around the Thunder and their fan base should have a general feel for Musky.
Next. Thunder Add Journeyman Alec Burks. dark
Free agency has only just begun, and the Thunder will commence their Summer League campaign in less than a week. Continue following Thunderous Intentions as we strive to keep you informed on all things Thunder.