OKC Thunder vs. Orlando Magic, 2019-20 team preview
Making the pieces fit:
Although Clifford has excelled at figuring out how to best capitalize on the roster pieces he has to work with there are clear issues. For as talented as Aaron Gordon is having him play at the small forward position isn’t ideal.
Additionally, there are now three potential point guards on the club but as of yet none of them are truly of starting potential. Augustine has been serviceable in the role but is better suited to come off the bench. This might get resolved if Fultz’s growth cycle continues which would include his shot becoming consistent. He’s made great strides so there is optimism. If however, he regresses or his shooting fundamentals slide backward the team may have to move on.
There are also decisions to be made in the frontcourt. With Vucevic signed through the next four seasons and the team seemingly committed to Jonathan Issac where does that leave Mo Bamba? Moving forward decisions will need to be made as it’s unlikely the goal is to have Mo remain on the bench but with the team in its current construction that’s the only spot he can slide into.
Who is the star?
While the team has several solid pieces and both Vucevic and Gordon have demonstrated prowess in different areas neither is suited to be the ‘go to’ player. Marc Gasol limited Vucevic’s effectiveness in the playoffs and he still has limitations on defense. Following his career season and at 29 it’s unlikely Vucevic will ascend much higher or suddenly improve defensively. That said a 20 and 10 big man isn’t common especially in the current era.
On the other hand, Gordon is only 24 and just at the precipice of his peak years. For him to take the next step and become a star he’ll need to improve his perimeter efficiency and improve his reliability on the defensive side.
Many thought Jonathan Isaac had the potential to become a star but at this point, he looks to be more of a defensive specialist.
While it made sense for Weltman to stick with the team who made great strides last season if there is any slippage he may need to investigate trading a few assets in order to bring in an elite level star.