How Muscala, Bazley Fit in New Destinations

Oklahoma City dished veteran big man Mike Muscala and athletic forward Darius Bazley to the Boston Celtics and the Phoenix Suns just before Thursday's trade deadline. OKC's trade deadline moves will likely have only a slight effect on the Thunder's season, as Bazley and Muscala combined for just six starts with each player averaging around 15 minutes per game.

Bazley and Muscala were traded to teams currently situated in a postseason spot, and both of Oklahoma City's former big men will be able to contribute to any potential run their new squad makes. With OKC probably still a year away from playoff contention, Bazley and Muscala will be able to make a bigger impact in Boston and Phoenix.

Muscala was dished to the Celtics, who have the best record in the NBA at 39-16. The Bucknell product averaged just over six points and three rebounds per game for the Thunder this season, but came up huge in multiple situations. Recently, the Minnesota native was a major contributor in Oklahoma City's victory over the Lakers, notching a 16 point performance that saw Muscala go 4-of-7 from beyond the arc.

The 10-year veteran will give Boston another big man who can knockdown 3-pointers off the bench, which is very valuable to the defending eastern conference champions. Muscala, a 39% 3-point shooter, will be a great pairing with Celtics defensive star Robert Williams, who has yet to hit a triple in his NBA career.

For Darius Bazley, the young big man will get to experience life in the limelight playing alongside his new Suns teammate Kevin Durant. Bazley's youth and athleticism give him a tangible upside, but the former first round pick still needs to hone his offensive skills.

A five-star recruit in high school, Bazley is averaging 5.4 points and 3.4 rebounds per game this season. The Massachusetts native's defense, however, is what gives him the most value, as Bazley is able to move his feet with guards, but is still tall enough to defend big men in the post.

Bazley's leaping ability also makes him a capable shot-blocker, and with defensive standout Mikal Bridges heading to Brooklyn in return for Durant, the Suns will need another versatile player on defense.

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