Thunder Summer League Team Could Compete for Title

With all the youth on Oklahoma City's roster, a slew of players who are expected to be regular contributors will see action in this year's Summer League, beginning in early July.

Last year, the Thunder's Summer League squad went 3-2, featuring some of the franchise's key pieces like Chet Holmgren, Josh Giddey and Jalen Williams. Giddey averaged 13 points, eight assists and 5.5 rebounds per game in the 2022 Summer League while Holmgren averaged two blocks and 2.3 steals per contest.

The Portland Trail Blazers Summer League team, however, took home the title last summer. While winning a championship in July is obviously not the end goal for any team, it is a good indication that you have promising, talented pieces in your organization who could develop into important players on your team.

This summer, OKC will likely see Cason Wallace, Keyontae Johnson, Jaylin Williams and Holmgren participate in the July's tournament. With these four players in addition to the slew of skilled undrafted free agents the team signed and their top G League contributors, the Thunder's roster could be formidable.

Holmgren was the team's leader in total points, blocks and steals last summer, also notching the second-most rebounds. The former Gonzaga star's best game came against the Jazz, when Holmgren scored 23 points on 7-of-9 shooting while going 4-of-6 from beyond the arc.

In addition to his scoring output, the No. 2 pick recorded seven rebounds, six blocks, four assists and one steal. Despite missing the entire regular season, Holmgren has spent plenty of time on an NBA workout schedule and is likely going to be a force in the 2023 Summer League.

Williams spent much of the regular season filled the gaps left in OKC's rotation by Holmgren's injury, playing very well in the coveted rookie's absence. The former Arkansas Razorback's defensive versatility and passing acumen for someone his size fit perfectly into the Thunder's scheme.

If Williams does play in the Summer League next month, his experience in the regular season will give him an upper hand over many of the players who haven't seen as much in-game action.

As an older college player, Johnson's experience will also help him be successful in the Summer League. For Wallace, his defensive skill set should provide a trait that will help him succeed early on.

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