Appealing OKC Thunder first round prospects for 2020 NBA draft

Matthew Hallett:

I like the look of Jalen Smith out of Maryland as a stretch-four to back up Danilo Gallinari should he stay. The second prospect is Duke’s Cassius Stanley who is a good prospect as a 6’6″ 3 and D wing.

Tamberlyn Richardson:

The current roster boasts a strong starting rotation and killer closing unit but the bench, though improved, is far from the top reserve unit. Given those factors and the potential for each of Gallo, CP3 and Nerlens Noel to leave this offseason Presti’s job is two-fold — find suitable replacements and add depth to the roster.

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The hope is Darius Bazley will grow into a core piece at forward. As good as he’s been losing Gallo would leave him and Mike Muscala at forward so the need to add depth specifically at that position is obvious.

Therefore the real question is — should Presti package his two picks and possibly one from another season to land a prospect expected to go in the lottery?

Sophomore Saddiq Bev is a perimeter sniper (45.1 percent) who could maintain the need to keep the floor spread for OKC. And coach Jay Wright of Villanova has a true penchant for sending gritty, defensive-minded players to the pros, especially guards (Kyle Lowry, Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo).

If we’re going for raw talent with huge upside I’d move mountains to get Isaac Okoro who is just 18 years old but possesses an NBA ready body. His defensive chops are already stellar while his offense has shown flashes he’s much less comfortable on that side of the court.

He can play both forward positions and while his offense is lagging behind his mechanics and fundamentals are in place. Dare I say he reminds me of OG Anunoby in terms of being NBA ready to defend and potential to grow into something very special.

Next up the Thunderous Intentions writing team offers suggestions for specific areas Shai Gilgeous-Alexander should focus on during the hiatus.

Wishing everyone a safe and healthy day.