OKC Thunder: “Pass or Pursue” on 3 recently rumored trade targets
By Mark Nilon
OKC Thunder target No. 2) Marvin Bagley, Sacramento Kings
Speaking of former Blue Devils…
The idea of the OKC Thunder targeting the likes of Marvin Bagley is certainly nothing new. In fact, earlier this week we discussed how the big man is a talent worth even giving up some draft capital for, stating:
"The third-year pro holds impressive career averages of 14.5 points, 7.6 rebounds, and just shy of a block per game on 49 percent shooting from the field. Fitting the timeline this OKC roster is currently on, coupled with filling a position at the pivot that could use for some fine-tuning, the idea of sliding Marvin Bagley into a starting lineup consisting of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is one that is worth parting with some draft capital to make happen."
After averaging 21 points and 11.1 rebounds per game on 61 percent shooting from the floor and 40 percent shooting from deep during his one-and-done season at Duke, the Sacramento Kings opted to take him No. 2 overall in the 2018 NBA Draft.
Unfortunately, however, he has yet to truly live up to the expectations that come with being such a high selection but, according to Swartz, Oklahoma City could be the optimal destination that could get the most out of him:
"The Thunder do a tremendous job developing their players, however, and Bagley could still end up being a high-level starter in OKC."
All things considered, should the Kings put the 21-year-old on the block, the Thunder should consider attaining him.