The Oklahoma City Thunder have the potential to acquire two first-round picks in the 2024 NBA Draft within the lottery range. These picks include the Houston Rockets’ pick, which is protected within the top four, and the Utah Jazz’s pick, protected within the top 10. The likelihood of obtaining the former pick appears higher than that of the latter.
As the NCAA Tournament progresses with the Sweet 16 underway, attention is drawn to the top prospects who are showcased on a national stage, highlighting their performances during the postseason.
Given the Thunder’s probable possession of at least one lottery pick, fans eagerly anticipate potential additions through the draft, providing opportunities to assess how these prospects fare under pressure in significant games.
One such prospect drawing attention is Duke guard Jared McCain. In Duke’s Sweet 16 victory over Houston, McCain contributed seven points, shooting 3-of-6 from the field and 1-of-4 from beyond the arc. Additionally, he secured six rebounds and dished out four assists in 40 minutes of play.
McCain is likely to pursue a one-and-done path, considering his significant contribution to Duke’s accomplishments as a freshman guard. Throughout 34 games, he maintained impressive averages of 14 points, shooting at a 46.5% rate from the field, along with five rebounds and 1.9 assists. Notably, his proficiency from beyond the arc stands out, boasting a 41.5% success rate on 5.7 attempts per game.
At the age of 20, McCain demonstrates a knack for scoring with finesse while possessing the ability to extend defenses with his shooting range. However, his current stature, standing at six-foot-three and weighing 197 pounds, may pose a slight concern regarding size. Nonetheless, there is potential for him to develop into a more robust physique over time.
Joining the Thunder, McCain could serve as a valuable asset as a versatile scorer coming off the bench. His addition would bolster the team’s already deep pool of guards and offer an additional threat as a catch-and-shoot option for OKC.
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