On a recent episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast, Simmons said, "I would be trying to trade for all the 12 through 17 OKC guys." The Thunder are one of the league's deepest teams; they simply don't have weak links. Even their players who don't see action most nights could be difference-makers on other teams, and the Milwaukee Bucks are proof of it following the addition of Ousmane Dieng.
Ousmane Dieng validates Simmons' point about Thunder
When the Milwaukee Bucks traded for Dieng, it was viewed as a fine move, but largely due to upside. At 22, the former 11th overall pick hasn't played a prominent role in his career to this point, and the thought process was that a new environment could help him grow in time. Well, it didn't make much time at all, as he has looked like the steal of trade season just three games into his Bucks tenure.
After scarcely playing in his first appearance, Deing has been sensational over his last two contests before the All-Star break. He averaged 18 points, seven rebounds, and three assists, all of which were second or tied for second on the team in this stretch. Of course, it's a small sample size, but it's truly impressive that he's been able to hit the ground running like this.
This type of opportunity simply wasn't there in OKC. During his four seasons there, Dieng appeared in just 136 games for an average of 12 minutes per game. Much of that was mop-up duty. The potential and talent were always there, but the chance to showcase them never was. Now, he's no longer held back by OKC's exceptional depth, and the Milwaukee Bucks are the ones benefiting.
Now, the question is what other hidden gems teams could pull away from OKC. Nikola Topic could be the next big point guard. Kenrich Williams could be the ultimate needle-mover for a contender. Jaylin Williams could be a useful big body for teams that need size. There's no telling what all of the players on the end of OKC's bench could do with a fresh start.
Ousmane Dieng's breakout puts a blinding spotlight on the Thunder's strong depth, and it will also have teams persistently calling OKC this summer. One has to wonder if the Charlotte Hornets and Chicago Bulls, two teams that had acquired Dieng before sending him out in separate trades, regret their decision to move on from him, knowing they could have had some of that sweet OKC depth.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.