OKC Thunder: 3 keys vs. Grizzlies feature trade deadline auditions

OKC Thunder key no. 2 – Will Muscala play himself out of OKC?

In the initial match between the clubs, Mike Muscala had one of his top three performances this season. He registered 21 points on 7 of 11 field goal shooting, hit five of his nine 3-point attempts, went 2 of2 from the line, and added three rebounds.

With Moose in a contract year, it would be naive to assume he’s not among the assets Sam Presti is shopping given his penchant for trading players in this situation. Moreover, while Muscala likes OKC and is likely open to re-signing he doesn’t fit the rebuilding timeline.

As Intentions has noted, teams will either rest a player to keep them healthy or feature them to augment their trade value. George Hill fits the former situation. In fairness, I don’t have a medical report and Hill may still be recovering but he’s well past the date that was proposed for his return.

At this point, it makes no sense to play Hill and risk him getting injured one night before the trade deadline so even if he could go it’s a moot point. Conversely, another stellar shooting performance by Muscala would bolster his trade value. His $2,283,034 contract is much more economical than similar reserve bigs who spread the court.

So, expect Daigneault to go to Muscala early and often especially if the 3-point shot is falling. His contract price is what it is — but if Musky has a big night, it gives Presti ammunition to seek a second-round pick.