The modern NBA big man takes many shapes. Recently, we’re seeing an influx of bigs who can play the 4 and the 5. We’re talking about the long, lanky archetype dominating the NBA lottery recently.
For example, look at Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Is he a 4, or is he a 5? Holmgren is certainly capable of functioning as a primary rim protector, but he can also thrive as a weak side helper at the 4. Meanwhile, this isn’t the only type of new big man we see around the NBA.
Big men who can defend in space are increasingly valuable as well. If they can also space the floor, that’s a huge plus. Isaiah Stewart of the Detroit Pistons is a good example.
Could the Thunder pair him with Holmgren?
NBA Trade Proposal: Oklahoma City Thunder Land Detroit Pistons’ Isaiah Stewart
Detroit Pistons Receive: G/F Ousmane Dieng, F Davis Bertans
Oklahoma City Thunder Receive: F/C Isaiah Stewart
The game is always changing. Sure, the big man has been the subject of the most change. It’s not the only position transforming. We’re also seeing an influx of wings who can handle the ball and make plays.
in theory, that’s what Dieng is supposed to be. This is an intriguing NBA prospect. Dieng has tremendous upside, but he’s also raw. Could he be the next Giannis Antetokoumnpo?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Isaiah Stewart, Detroit Pistons, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
That’s unlikely. Antetokoumnpo is one of one. Still, that’s the model. Ever since Antetokoumnpo entered the league as an unheralded prospect, teams have taken notice. The idea of developing a tall, ball-handling wing has gotten more enticing.
Should the Thunder cut ties with Dieng now?
Why The Oklahoma City Thunder Do The Deal
It won’t be easy. The Thunder spent a lottery pick on Dieng recently. With that said, his minutes have decreased in his sophomore season. The Thunder’s core is solidifying.
This team will likely be built around Holmgren, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Jalen Williams. So, moving Dieng makes sense. Acquiring Stewart makes sense as well.
His ability to defend in space should complement Holmgren’s ability to defend the rim nicely. He’s exactly the type of utility player who should make this team better.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Isaiah Stewart, Detroit Pistons, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
That should be the Thunder’s sole concern. This team looks ready to make a deep playoff run. It’s time for the Thunder to start prioritizing role players around their star trio.
Should the Pistons part with a valuable role player?
Why The Detroit Pistons Do The Deal
The Thunder are advancing through the NBA standings. The Pistons are not. That’s putting it generously. The Pistons are at risk of putting together the longest losing streak in NBA history.
How should they respond? You’ll find a variety of opinions. Some would say that the Pistons need to cut their losses and go trade for a star. This is getting embarrassing, and Detroit needs to redeem itself.
We’ll preach patience instead. This roster is awkwardly constructed. The Pistons need a young wing. Why not take a flyer on Dieng? This deal should make them worse, but they’re already at rock bottom.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Isaiah Stewart, Detroit Pistons, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
They might as well bring in a young player with a high upside and try the lottery again next summer. After all, Alexandre Sarr looks like a perfect, big modern man.
