What can the OKC Thunder expect from Vasilije Micic?

What sort of basketball player is Vasilije Micic?

During his tenure with Anadolu Efes, Micic operated as a primary ball handler and offensive initiator. EuroLeague basketball is typically touted as a more egalitarian style of play, which can make it difficult for players to adjust to the NBA. I don’t anticipate Micic will struggle with adapting his play. He has shown a strong ability to operate out of the pick-and-roll and a willingness to shoot from distance.

On the spectrum of score-first to pass-first guards, I’d put him more in the former camp. He is certainly a willing passer, averaging ~5 assists per game over his last 3 EuroLeague seasons. His game really shines, though, with his ability to create his own shot both on and off the ball.

Oftentimes, Anadolu Efes would draw up ATO plays utilizing Micic’s speed and ability to shoot coming off of screens. He would bolt from one corner across the perimeter, around a teammate or two clear to the other side of the court, and fire the ball off as soon as it hit his hands. There is not much hesitation at all in the way he plays. Every decision is quick and purposeful.

Although he is an exciting player to watch, his game is not entirely without flaws. His defense is not much to write home about. With a shorter wingspan, he isn’t able to muck up passing lanes. He has the strength to hold up against bigger players, but will resort to fouling if he gets blown by.

His most worrisome trait in my eyes was his turnovers. Micic’s handle can be a bit loose when he’s running in transition, and his passes can skew errant at times. These weaknesses were far outshined by his ability to run the offense at a championship (I know, a EuroLeague Championship) level.