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OKC Thunder Secure Secondary Handler for Future Success
17 Jul
Summary
- Oklahoma City Thunder have addressed secondary handling issues plaguing past postseasons.
- Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell's return bolsters on-ball creation capabilities.
- Bennett Stirtz, drafted 16th overall, adds another play-making and shooting option.
For the past three postseasons, the Oklahoma City Thunder have struggled with secondary ball-handling and half-court offense, often relying too heavily on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. This deficiency was evident in their 2024 playoff exit and was a key factor in their recent losses.
This offseason, the Thunder have made targeted moves to address these weaknesses. The return of Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell is expected to provide much-needed on-ball creation. Additionally, former 76ers guard Jared McCain has shown promise as an offensive creator, earning a starting spot in the Western Conference Finals.
The Thunder further bolstered their ball-handling capabilities by selecting Bennett Stirtz with the No. 16 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Stirtz, known for his shooting and play-making, is expected to complement Gilgeous-Alexander and the others, providing additional options for ball movement and offensive initiation.
With Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, Mitchell, McCain, and Stirtz, Oklahoma City now possesses a deeper roster capable of handling play-making duties. This improved depth should prove beneficial, even when accounting for potential injuries, and signifies a proactive approach to resolving past offensive struggles.
