Trade Talk: Could Kelly Olynyk Benefit the Thunder?
With a top-three record in the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder have proven to be one of the NBA's most impressive teams this season. Even then, it wouldn't be all that surprising to see them make marginal moves at February's trade deadline.
The biggest need at this point is big bodies who can play in the frontcourt within Oklahoma City's scheme. Could Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Lu Dort's FIBA teammate Kelly Olynyk help Oklahoma City this season?
As reported by Marc Stein earlier this week, several teams are “monitoring” the situation with the Utah Jazz and Olynyk leading up to the trade deadline.
If he does become available, Oklahoma City should consider making an offer. Olynyk stands at 6-foot-11 with a solid 240 pound frame. He isn't a rim protector by any means, but does fit the Thunder system perfectly.
For starters, he stretches the floor well for a big. In fact, he's knocked down 41.4% of his triples on the season. Furthermore, he's a good positional passer and great connector on the offensive end. Olynyk has notched 4.6 assists per contest this season, which is another way he could enhance the OKC scoring attack.
He's also very familiar with Gilgeous-Alexander and Dort, as mentioned, given their experience playing for their national team together in recent FIBA competition.
As always, every player has a relative value to each team. If the Olynyk sweepstakes turns into a bidding war, Thunder GM Sam Presti likely won't overpay, even if he has the assets to. This Oklahoma City team should continue to stay patient and only make the right deal for the right price.
However, Olynyk would be the perfect fit assuming the Thunder wouldn't have to overpay.
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