As the 2024 NBA Draft approaches, narratives about the draft class being weak have been circulating. However, Oklahoma City Thunder’s General Manager, Sam Presti, holds a different view. Speaking to the press on May 28, 2024, Sam Presti expressed his optimism about the draft, stating, “I like the draft. I think it’s pretty good.
I think every one of these is so different. One thing we know historically is that there are good players in there, and they never go in order.”
Oklahoma City Thunder’s Strategic Position as Per Sam Presti
On NBA Draft Lottery night, the Oklahoma City Thunder secured the No. 12 pick, a position that has historically yielded successful outcomes for the team. Despite the negative narratives surrounding this draft class, Sam Presti remains bullish on the potential it holds. He emphasized the unpredictability and depth of talent in the draft, suggesting that valuable players can be found beyond the top picks.
The Hidden Gems of the Draft
Sam Presti’s confidence stems from his belief in the depth of talent available in the draft. He highlighted the possibility of finding impactful players even in the later rounds. “Someone is going to come out of the second round, is going to have a huge impact.
Someone is going to be picked in the 20s — there’s, like, a 3 percent chance or something you can get, like, a top starter or really good player in the 20s, an all-NBA player in the 20s. That’s really, really hard to do, but it happens,” Sam Presti remarked.
The Importance of Development
Finding talent is just the beginning. Sam Presti emphasized the importance of development in maximizing a player’s potential.
“They’re in there, but a big part of that is obviously you observe the players, then you evaluate them to decide, and then you have to onboard them, and then you have to develop and work with them, try to understand where they’re going and how to get there,” Sam Presti explained.
This holistic approach to player development is key to unlocking the potential of this year’s draft class.
Seeking Complementary Talent
While this year’s draft may lack immediate superstars, the Thunder are focused on finding players who can complement their existing roster and contribute to their long-term success. The No. 12 pick presents an opportunity to add a valuable piece to the team, capable of making a winning impact.
Joining the Conversation
For fans eager to stay updated on the latest Thunder news, engaging with Inside the Thunder on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter is highly recommended. This allows fans to join the discussion and stay connected with the team behind the coverage.
Looking Ahead
Sam Presti’s optimism about the 2024 NBA Draft challenges the prevailing negative narratives. His belief in the depth of talent and the importance of player development offers a fresh perspective on the potential of this year’s draft class. As the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare for the June draft, fans can look forward to discovering new talent that can contribute to the team’s future success.
