6 Playoff teams that could steal Saddiq Bey away from Hawks in free agency
4) OKC Thunder could get more hustle and muscle with Saddiq Bey
The Oklahoma City Thunder led the league in three-point efficiency this season. They are also still alive in the postseason, trailing the Dallas Mavericks 3-2 in their second-round series. But the Thunder were a middling team in terms of three-point volume.
They also have Kenrich Williams, affectionately called “Kenny Hustle” for his playing style.
Bey had the 11th-highest percentage of his team’s defensive rebounds among players with 60 appearances and 30-plus minutes per.
Pairing the two of them in lineups is a perfect match in theory. OKC general manager Sam Presti has drafted well and is loaded with draft capital. But the Thunder – like the Magic – will have the cap space to sign Bey outright if they wish.
I’ve been critical of Saddiq Bey, but the thing I won’t knock on the man is his hustle and willingness to see things through. Attempted his free throws and Pels allowed the foul for him to go to the locker room. pic.twitter.com/hN7HMHVQMS
— Danny 🍑 (@IAmElixand) March 10, 2024
How far the Thunder go this postseason could determine how willing Presti is to spend.
There are few veteran stars available in free agency. Avoiding a bidding war on them could preserve cap space for the homegrown talent.
The Thunder also have a need on the glass, ranking 29th in offensive rebounding, bringing their overall mark down to 27th. Bey could also see a resurgence of his shooting stroke under renowned shooting coach Chip Engelland.
That could make the Thunder as appealing as any other potential landing spot this summer.