OKC Thunder draft prospect profile: Onyeka Okongwu

Pro Comparison:

Kevin O’Connor of the Ringer lists Bam Adebayo, young Antonio McDyess, and Taj Gibson as potential comparisons.

Other analysts have given a wide range of John Collins or Montrezl Harrell. If you consider the variance between Adebayo and Harrell that’s a very big disparity.

Considering how much Adebayo did for the Heat and how difficult their path became in the NBA Finals once he wasn’t 100 percent showcased his true value. That’s also why a lot of pundits are moving this big man up their boards.

Then factor in how much Adebayo has grown since joining the pros. In contrast, Okongwu is already showcasing the ability to fill up a stat sheet both in terms of the three main categories as well as the defensive categories like steals and blocks.

While the NBA was seemingly moving away from big men the playoffs proved how valuable bigs remain especially the ones who have two-way capabilities.

OKC Thunder fit:

So here’s the thing — if Okongwu had remained in the 10 to 14 projected draft seeding I’d be suggesting Sam Presti make a move that required giving up some assets and even throwing in some second-round picks (but not in 2021 or 2022).

But, now that the big man looks like he’ll be selected in the top five it’s hard to imagine any team being open to giving up their pick in that range without wanting something substantial back. A review of what the Wolves, Warriors, and Hornets are looking for in exchange for their top three picks is far too much for the talent on the board.

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In the last two drafts classes, there were generational talents on the board and players with a strong likelihood to become a core contributor. Yet, this season has far too many question marks involved.

Moreover, the picks outside the lottery and through to the early second round could just as likely produce a talent that develops into a core contributor as those in the lottery – that’s how uncertain the ceiling of the prospects in this class are. Once TI completes the top 14 projected lottery picks there were be several prospects that fall in that category and will cost Sam Presti far less.

Ultimately, if Sam Presti could pull off a magician move to add Okongwu without giving up any picks from 2021 or 2022 and limited the package to a single draft pick he should consider making the move. Players who have the potential to become defensive talents and also offensive threats are extremely rare. More and more players of this ilk will become the most coveted especially as wings and big men evolve in the new era.