OKC Thunder Breakout Candidates in 2023-24

Plenty of offseason discussion has centered around the Thunder's jam-packed roster heading into training camp. Of course, there's still time to trade, cut, and made changes over the course of the summer, but the front office seems committed to training camp competition heading into an important season for the franchise.

The roster has an influx of ball handlers, which means the prospects on the team will really have to make time on the court count. Opportunities could be limited, so taking any window of chance will be crucial for players wanting to carve out a role.

A season ago, Isaiah Joe was Oklahoma City's most surprising breakout after signing a team-friendly deal right before the season starts. With added floor spacing and a need for consistency, Joe could be an unlikely candidate for something like the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year, or the most efficient long-range shooter in the league. Joe's ascension goes beyond a breakout player on the Thunder after what he showed a season ago.

Now, the Thunder need another young prospect to step up and break out. Here are a few potential candidates that make sense on the roster:

Aleksej Pokusevski

Poku is the biggest question mark heading into the season. After an injury-riddled 2022-23 campaign, his expectations seem to be all over the place. It's easy to point to the mistakes, but it's clear Pokusevski has improved leaps and bounds in Oklahoma City. If you're paying close attention, it's hard not to be excited about the Serbian's development.

Pokusevski displayed shot-blocking abilities and offensive consistency that surprised everyone a season ago. Lost in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's break out and Jalen Williams' unbelievable season was Poku's stretch of impactful play. Before he got hurt, he averaged 11 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 2.0 blocks per game across 13 contests in November. He was the best early-season surprise on the team. If he can stay healthy in 2023-24, it could be a big breakout season. Don't write Poku off just yet.

Tre Mann

Mann was one of the biggest stock boosters across Summer League a few weeks ago. He took Salt Lake City and Vegas by storm with his point totals and efficient shooting splits. It was another reminder of the player Mann could turn into if it starts to click.

Even with Isaiah Joe as the Thunder's sniper, the team needs microwave scoring off the bench. If Mann can keep the turnovers low and maintain consistent percentages, he could be a pleasant surprise for the Thunder this season. The coaching staff needs to be able to trust him and know what he'll bring to the floor every single night — even if his shot isn't falling. If he finds his confidence in the regular season, it'll be a big plus for the Thunder.

Ousmane Dieng

In addition to Mann, Dieng had an impressive summer with so many flashes. It wasn't just the massive point totals or the step-back 3-pointers, but Dieng displayed what his role could look like in the regular season, too, with his connecting attributes.

His swing skill will undoubtedly be his outside shooting stroke, and if he's efficient from 3-point range, he's an easy breakout candidate for the Thunder this season. Dieng is still learning to use his size and strength around the rim, but having a reliable jump shot is the ultimate confidence booster in an all-around offensive game.

Want to join the discussion? Like Inside the Thunder on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date on all the latest Thunder news. You can also meet the team behind the coverage.