Thunderous Intentions
Fansided

Breaking down reformulated OKC Thunder roster following trio of trades

By Tamberlyn Richardson

Deonte Burton #30 of the Oklahoma City Thunder Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)
Deonte Burton #30 of the Oklahoma City Thunder Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) /

The future – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander:

Despite the trade and accompanying angst of losing superstar Russell Westbrook by demanding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander be part of the George trade the Thunder already have their point guard of the future.

Giving up five draft picks and two draft swaps aren’t even the major factor the Clippers apparently struggled over. Rather, LA really didn’t want to lose Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Case in point, when discussing the potential trade to land Anthony Davis the Clippers stated SGA was untouchable. As per Matt Chong of Clipperholics:

"It has long been known that Gilgeous-Alexander was virtually untouchable for the Clippers. They got out in front of things when Anthony Davis was made available in New Orleans, putting out that SGA was a non-starter in any deal for Davis. In fact, it’s been widely believe that Gilgeous-Alexander would have been off-limits in basically any trade."

Bobby Marks added fuel to this assessment as per Jamie Boggs of MSN News:

"On the Sedano Show on ESPN Thursday, Bobby Marks said the word in the Clippers organization is that Gilgeous-Alexander will not be on the table for trade talks, even in a potential Anthony Davis deal."

For as much as it will be weird not to witness Westbrook on the court at the Peake be prepared to fall in love with SGA. He’s likable, humble, a hard worker, and not frightened by the bright lights highlighted by his playoff performance. That fact was punctuated in Game 4 versus the Warriors when he scored 25 points (the best Clippers rookie performance in 40 years as per LA Times Sports). At 6’6″ he adds great length to the point while his change of pace moves and ability to find open shooters will make him a fan favorite quickly.

For as much as Thunder Nation are accustomed to having a player give 110 percent in every single game, it should be noted SGA will surprise many with his effort.

Furthermore, if Steven Adams remains on the squad be prepared for Shai to help the big dog eat! SGA already has a relationship with Gallo which will help with his transition. And, in an off court segue, although SGA (nor anyone in the NBA) won’t usurp Westbrook off the top ladder of being the fashion master, he’ll definitely have his drip game on high!

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