OKC Thunder: Kadeem Jack is playing like Nerlens Noel for the OKC Blue
In the short handed win over the Santa Cruz Warriors, Kadeem Jack had another massive double-double. His energy reminds me of a G-League Nerlens Noel of the OKC Thunder.
Kadeem Jack is one of the most energetic players in basketball. Standing 6’9″ and weighing 235 lbs, he is a human highlight reel of rebounds, blocks, and dunks. Sound like anyone we all know? Yes, he is the G-League equivalent of OKC Thunder reserve Nerlens Noel.
Jack has only played 17 games this season, all from the bench. When he gets on the court, he is averaging 9.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 0.7 blocks per game in just 19.3 minutes of action. Constant energy, constant movement, constant production.
https://twitter.com/okcblue/status/1218764813494640640?s=20
This is very much like Nerlens Noel, his production is in short spurts but what he gives the OKC Thunder is crucial. This is the same for Jack. He knows how much time he is going to get on the court and gives his all for the team.
Like Noel when he starts, when Jack is given the opportunity for the Blue, he rarely disappoints. Against the Santa Cruz Warriors, the Blue were down to just eight players. As a result, Jack had 30 minutes of game time.
More from Thunder News
- Stealing one player from every Southwest Division team for the OKC Thunder
- Should the OKC Thunder chase after a disgruntled hometown hero?
- 3 OKC Thunder players who can step up in Aleksej Pokusevski’s absence
- Aleksej Pokusevski sidelined approximately 6 weeks with ankle injury
- Damian Lillard does not fit with the OKC Thunder
What did he produce in said game time? 26 points, 12 rebounds, two blocks, and one assist. He went 9-of-12 from the floor and 5-of-5 from the line. Just watch the highlights package below and you will see what I mean about the comparison to Noel.
Despite the lack of range on his shot, Jack is always providing an option for his teammates. His ability to block a shot, including one at the rim on a dunk attempt.
His ability to time his leap for the offensive rebound and dunk is very similar to that of the OKC Thunder reserve.
Like Noel, Jack has been often injured early in his career. He has played more than 40 games twice in his five years in the league.
Next. NBA power rankings week 13: Halfway mark, Thunder hold steady. dark
If he can get his body right, Kadeem Jack has the possibility of becoming a solid two-way player in the NBA. Hopefully, that will be for the OKC Thunder.