On Thursday, OKC Thunder GM Sam Presti had his preseason press conference, and lo and behold, it was filled with notable soundbites, valuable information, and the obligatory strokes of genius that fans have come to expect out of him.
One of the more interesting segments was when Presti spoke on the new 3-2-1 draft lottery system, which will create a more even playing field for teams hoping to land a top pick in future drafts and thus increase the league's overall competitiveness.
With these new rules, bottom-feeder teams have been disincentivized to fully tank, and teams that miss the playoffs but remain competitive throughout the season will be rewarded.
Presti had nothing but praise for the new change and acknowledged the predicted increase in competitiveness. While tighter contests might lead to a better overall NBA product, though, it may inadvertently hinder the Thunder's second-round pick, Otega Oweh, in a crucial way.
Thunder's extended rotations might not be beneficial for Otega Oweh
The former Kentucky Wildcat is seemingly on the bubble entering preseason. OKC has one more roster spot left to fill, and Oweh is shaping up to be one of the leading candidates for the slot. If he secures it, there will be little contention from fans, but what would happen next might hinder the youngster's growth.
As Presti also noted, the Thunder are notorious for playing large, 10- to 11-man rotations. The general manager discussed in his presser how the organization prioritizes development and, as a result, often plays more players in games than many think they should.
Fans have already seen many players benefit from that. Jaylin Williams, for example, was a backend roster guy who has now earned himself a larger piece of the pie thanks to coach Mark Daigneault's willingness to give him opportunities.
Departed Thunder favorite Aaron Wiggins was given ample minutes, and now he heads to a Hawks team that likely has significant plans for him in their rotation.
Otega Oweh may be banished to G League if Thunder don't force enough blowouts
These are just a few of many Thunder players who have performed above expectations despite not carrying much draft capital. The trend may stop with Oweh, though, as he may not find as many opportunities to get on the court.
Over the past two seasons, the Thunder have enjoyed the highest point differential in the league. Because they have played in so many blowouts, their back-end roster guys have been able to see the floor more consistently.
But if OKC plays competitive games more often this year, it may be difficult for coach Daigneault to justify giving a second-round rookie added minutes while his team is attempting to secure postseason home-court advantage in the West.
If Oweh is unable to carve out a role, his development could stall, and thus his career. The Thunder already possess unmitigated depth in their backcourt, and Oweh is towards the back of a logjammed guard rotation.
If Daigneault can't find enough minutes for him during the season, Sam Presti may have no choice but to keep the young guard on a two-way contract, where he can play and develop in the G League.
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