Just over a week ago, the OKC Thunder traded Ousmane Dieng, which created a ripple effect that sent him to two other teams before he finally landed with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Now playing extended minutes, Dieng is showing Oklahoma City that they may have been wrong about him.
Over the last two games with his new squad, the third-year forward has averaged 18.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists, and the Bucks have had a 22-point advantage when he has been on the floor.
Ousmane Dieng another example of breakout by former Thunder
Dieng's breakout after leaving Oklahoma City is not a new phenomenon. Thunder fans have grown used to seeing underappreciated players leave town and find success elsewhere.
Ty Jerome is in the middle of the same experience.
Having played his second and third years in OKC, Jerome finally managed to find his footing in Cleveland, where he averaged 12.5 points per game last season as one of the first men off the bench.
This season, he is emerging as a dominant force in his first year with Memphis. Through six games, he has scored 19.7 points and 6.0 assists per game.
The most recent example of this trend is Josh Giddey, who was cast aside by OKC after they gave up on the Australian in 2023-2024.
Since his departure, Giddey has responded emphatically.
In a year and a half as a Bull, the point guard has averaged 15.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. This season, he was on his way to a potential All-Star campaign before injuring his hamstring and sitting out for an extended period of time.
Thunder talent evaluation problem or embarassment of riches problem?
While the Thunder are beginning to develop a reputation for letting talented players go, it is hard to argue with their rationale to have parted ways in the first place.
Giddey is flourishing in Chicago, but Alex Caruso, OKC's return piece in the deal, aided them in their championship run last season.
Dieng is indeed playing at another level in his new uniform, but his departure from OKC has been mutually beneficial.
The Thunder moved Dieng to create roster space for their newly acquired piece, Jared McCain. The sophomore guard arrived from Philadelphia and has made an immediate impact. His quickness, ball-handling, and shooting ability have provided an offensive boost for the blue and orange's second unit.
GM Sam Presti likely doesn't lament any of these transactions, as they have culminated in Thunder dominance. As with their other recent departures, OKC will be more than happy to celebrate his success... as long as Mark Daigneault and company end their season with yet another ring.