OKC Thunder: Grades for Darius Bazley’s breakout season
OKC Thunder contract and season grades for Darius Bazley
Contract grade:
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Bazley just finished the second year of his four-year rookie-scale deal worth just over $10 million. Last season his contract was worth $2.2 million, and this season it was worth $2.3 million. Given the increase in his role and production, it was certainly worth it.
Looking forward, Bazley has two years left on his deal — next season is worth $2.5 million and the fourth year is a team option for $4.2 million. With his ceiling still being explored, this contract is incredibly team-friendly and will help the rebuilding Thunder.
Contract grade: A+
Season grade:
The 2020-21 season for the OKC Thunder has been about the assessment of talent and then the development of that talent. Well, Darius Bazley’s season certainly fits the bill, with the exception of the time that he was injured.
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Bazley went from bench piece last season to a key starter this season. Given that it was only his second year in the league, what he was able to achieve before his 21st birthday was incredible. He had his issues from deep but showed tremendous growth in almost every other aspect of his game. His future is certainly very bright.
Season grade: A-