OKC Thunder: “Pass or Pursue” on 3 recently rumored trade targets

OKC Thunder target No. 3) Jaxson Hayes

Last but certainly not least we have the high-flying second-year center, Jaxson Hayes.

Despite having a solid rookie season, where he posted averages of 7.4 points, four rebounds, and just shy of a block per game on 67 percent shooting from the field in 16.9 minutes of action, the 20-year-old finds himself stuck behind the likes of former OKC Thunder center Steven Adams in New Orleans and, in turn, has seen his role diminish drastically.

Selected eighth overall last season, Hayes came into the league with sound comparisons to Jarett Allen — a player we discussed OKC pursuing in the past –, as he possessed a similar set of shot swatting abilities and rim-running skills.

Though not having a great sophomore season statistically, perhaps a change of scenery could do the center some good and, according to B/R’s piece, the Thunder should be a team interested in helping him change zip codes:

"He’s a big, athletic body who’s already shown the ability to throw down some rim-rattling dunks. With the trade and extension for Steven Adams in New Orleans, however, Hayes is stuck in a reserve role. He’d be a great prospect to take a flier on for the Thunder, able to learn under Al Horford before being forced into major minutes."

With such a small sample size in the league, there are still a bevy of question marks surrounding the young big man.

That said, should he be able to be acquired for minimal assets, it could prove to be a low-risk/ potentially high-reward move as they embark on their rebuild.

Verdict: Lightly Pursue