OKC Thunder NBA draft profile: Josh Giddey – the gifted, lengthy playmaker

Next up for Intentions annual OKC Thunder prospect profile series is Adelaide guard Josh Giddey of the NBL.

There will be inevitable comparisons to Australian’s Ben Simmons and Joe Ingles for the 6’8 point guard from Melbourne. Yet, Giddey has qualities that will set him apart and his countrymen. Moreover, as one of the youngest prospects in the 2021 draft class, he’ll have time to grow and develop with his drafting club and build his own niche.

Giddey isn’t listed on the Australian men’s Olympic basketball team. Instead, the roster features several NBA players and a mature group that includes Patty Mills, Dante Exum, and Matthew Dellavedova.

Despite missing the cut for Tokyo, it didn’t stop the youngster from using his time on the court in an exhibition match versus Nigeria to impress several front-office executives in attendance. Giddey offered 14 points, four rebounds, and three assists.

Shortly after the match, Giddey received an invitation to the 2021 NBA Draft Green Room which is a privilege typically reserved for around 20 prospects.

At only 18-years of age, he’ll no doubt get ample opportunity to be involved in future Olympic games and instead can focus on integrating with his new team following the draft.

OKC Thunder draft prospect profile for Josh Giddey:

Specifics:

• Height: 6’8″
• Weight:  205 pounds
• Wingspan: 6’7.5
• Position: Guard
• Birthdate/Age:  October 10th, 2002, 18 years
• International: Adelaide 36ers, NBL
• Stat line:  10.9 points, 7.4 rebounds,  7.5 assists, 1.1 steals
• Home Town: Melbourne, Australia

Box Score Statistics:

Provided by Basketball-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 7/16/2021.

Current Ranking:

• The Ringer: 13th
• NBA DraftNet: 16th
• ESPN: 11th
• CBS Sports: 9th
• NBA: 14th
• Bleacher Report: 12th
• FanSided The Step Back: 20th

With that let’s dive a little deeper into Josh Giddey to determine his strengths and weaknesses.