3 College Prospects That Are 2024 Draft Targets For Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder have two first rounders in the 2024 NBA Draft via the Houston Rockets (top four protected) and Utah Jazz (top ten protected).

Based on their records and trajectories, the Thunder will likely be selecting in the mid to late lottery, although the ping pong balls could throw a changeup.

Which prospects from that range would be impactful additions to Oklahoma City in both the short and long-term? 

Thunder Add A Skilled Offensive Wing With A Lethal Shot

The first prospect that the Thunder should target during the 2024 NBA Draft is Dalton Knecht. He transferred from Northern Colorado to Tennessee last spring and has made the significant transition appear easy. The sharpshooter is averaging 20 points per game for an elite Tennessee squad that currently ranks top five in the nation. 

Outside shooting is Knecht’s premier skill; he owns a 40 three-point percentage on over five attempts per game despite routinely flying off of screens for difficult catch-and-shoot looks. Knecht cannot be labeled a specialist though, as he possesses an effective pull-up jumper and displays intriguing self-creation upside. Additionally, Knecht has produced one point per possession as the pick-and-roll ball handler on decent volume via Synergy, which ranks in the 89th percentile. 

His three-point shooting would open up the court for an Oklahoma City squad that leads the NBA in drives per game. Because Knecht can create on the fly, he also has the potential to salvage broken possessions – a luxury for role players. 

In summation, Knecht represents an ideal offensive fit for the Thunder, and he is ready to be an impactful player on day one.