Isaiah Joe’s Resurgence in Large Part to Better Role in OKC
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Isaiah Joe’s career had plateaued.
Joe was in Philadelphia playing as a limited usage bench player in his first two NBA seasons. His role was likely going to be reduced if he remained with the Sixers.
He was eventually waived by the Sixers after the preseason before this season. Shortly after being waived, Joe agreed to a multi-year deal with Oklahoma City.
Joe was drafted out of Arkansas by the Sixers in the 2020 draft and saw action in 96 games. However, in those games his impact and role was extremely limited due to the roster makeup in Philly.
Joe was lost in a heavily competitive rotation on a team with championship hopes. A new start was what he needed. He got just that in OKC.
In his two seasons prior to joining the Thunder, Joe averaged 3.7 points per game. He entered the league with upside as a 3-point threat, but in the 2021-22 campaign he struggled shooting just 33.3% from beyond the arc.
With a young roster and coming off a season finishing last in 3-point shooting the Thunder took a chance on a young guard.
The risk has paid off. On Friday night with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander out with ankle and hip injuries, Joe showed his talents. Joe posted a career high 28 points, he also netted seven rebounds.
It’s not just a one time flash either, Joe has been showing his skills and ability to be a key contributor to an NBA roster all season. Joe is having his best season overall in his career, but especially from 3-point range.
Joe has been lethal shooting nearly 45% from 3-point range this season. His mark is good for third best in the league, by a narrow margin.
Joe is averaging 8.3 points and 2.2 rebounds per game this season while being one of the most efficient overall shooters not only in OKC, but the league.
He was given a second chance to make a name for himself in the NBA and he’s jumped at the chance. He’s put his name out for the league to know, and he’s been a large factor in OKC’s success this season offensively.
Joe’s resurgence and continued success this season in OKC continues to show players situations matter during their development and young careers.
In Oklahoma City Joe was given a larger role and a chance to thrive as a catch and shoot 3-point player, and he’s excelled earning him a bigger role and key part in the OKC rotation moving forward.
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