Big man cometh:
Part of the way Billy Donovan can help with Adams growth and capitalize on the minutes he is on the floor is to not wear him down. And that is where Nerlens Noel figures to see his game grow this season.
It was a bit of a surprise Noel re-signed with the Thunder and without Presti needing to overpay. With another low cost contract, Noel once again must prove his mettle this season.
The Thunder have yet to confirm if Noel was signed to a one or two year term (or if the big man signed a two year deal with the ability to opt out again next summer).
Either way, it’s likely Noel will hit free agency next summer and will need to showcase why he deserves a longer more lucrative contract. Reportedly Noel fired his agent Rich Paul from Klutch Sports and no doubt has spent time reflecting back on the deal he turned down in Dallas which would have resulted in the big man earning $70 million over four seasons.
This last campaign Noel’s per game averages were 4.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.9 steals, and 1.2 blocks. Extrapolating how Noel could offer more this season would be a quick scan of his per 36 stat line which showcase 12.9 points and 11.1 rebounds, 2.3 steals and 3.3 blocks.