How OKC Thunder can capitalize on Danilo Gallinari desire to join contender

Newly acquired OKC Thunder power forward Danilo Gallinari opines on his goals for his future as the 11-year veteran prepares for his first season in OKC.

As part of the trade which sent Paul George to the Clippers one of the key assets included in the package was forward Danilo Gallinari. His inclusion wasn’t a simple throw-in to make the numbers work. Rather, the power forward represented the second highest scoring option on the Clippers and by just a smidge under Lou Williams. Moreover, the work by Gallinari came facing starting rotations and several of his stats bordered on career bests.

As Thunderous Intentions dove into recently, Gallinari is an adept scoring threat with a versatile offensive game which extends all over the hardwood. Ironically, during the years the Thunder tried to regain their footing following Kevin Durant‘s exit Gallo was the type of player who would’ve fulfilled the teams stretch four needs.

Looking back to the season General Manager added Carmelo Anthony it’s hard not to wonder if the OKC Thunder had Gallo at that time how much easier the offense would’ve flowed. Or, if his presence could’ve provided the extra punch required to push deeper in the postseason.

That ‘what if’ thinking won’t change history and now the offensive threat arrives on a squad at the start of their reposition and replenish era.

Last season Gallinari’s per game statistical averages were impressive: 19.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.6 assists and blistering 43.3 percent perimeter efficiency on 5.5 attempts.