Roundtable sessions: OKC Thunder lineups, rotations and reserve units

Which player among the youngsters makes the biggest jump this season and why?

Tamberlyn Richardson:

The obvious answer of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who will become the primary scorer and playmaker when Paul eventually is traded.

However, Darius Bazley has made a strong early impression on yours truly. It’s fair to state there are expectations for Diallo and Ferguson that don’t exist for Bazley. TFerg and Hami may flourish this season and likely record more points per game than the rook, but Darius’ overall skill set and demeanor tip the scale.

His combination of natural raw talent combined with desirable character traits of calmness, confidence and high I.Q is impressive. He already is the best playmaker among the trio, is connecting on the 3-ball at a decent clip and hitting the glass.

Each of the trio has strengths and weaknesses. TFerg lacks playmaking skills, doesn’t draw free throws and isn’t a particularly strong rebounder. Diallo’s strengths lie in rebounding, and athletic offense. His weaknesses are a sub-par 3-point shot, lack of playmaking and drawing fouls.  Of the three Bazley already checks off the most boxes with the potential to excel in every area except (so far) getting to the line. Of the three, I’d bet the rookie will master that ability first.

Taking everything into consideration the rookie is my choice to surprise and exceed expectations.

Rylan Stiles:

Hamidou Diallo. I think he will prove he is more than just a springy dunker. Diallo has the ability to be a Terrance Ferguson level defender, and if he adds even a fraction of Ferguson’s shooting touch that is more than enough of a jump for the second year second-rounder to secure this title.

Noah Schulte:

Logically, I know it’ll be Shai, but I’m going to be bold and say it’s Burton, for the reasons I listed above.

Aidan E:

Ferguson because he has shown to be a competent NBA player unlike the rest of the young guys. His 3&D skillset is there but he needs to show improvements to his ball-handling and self-creation on offense.

Matthew Hallet:

Abdel Nader is the player who will take the biggest jump this season. His ability to get open and also put the ball on the floor makes him a tough guard. He is also going to play more minutes without Paul George on the team.

Kevon Stewart:

T Ferg has to make a substantial leap this year. He will have more opportunities now effectively being OKC’s sixth man, not counting Schroder.

Tyler Barger:

Hamidou Diallo.  I believe that he will get more playing time and this will allow him to grow because this team is playing all of their youngsters.