THE 2024 National Basketball Association (NBA) Draft is rapidly approaching, with each team making their final preparations ahead of adding some young talent to the best competition in the world.

There are some seriously impressive prospects available, with the crop stretching all around the globe as more international players begin to gain recognition. Suddenly, the collegiate system is not the only method to joining the NBA, which has allowed a broader range of players to compete at the top level.

With the NBA wrapping up the 2023/24 season as we speak, the teams already eliminated have spent the past few weeks considering which players they will select to prepare for the future, and the recent Draft Lottery saw the official order determined.

With that in mind, Rookie Me Central will be taking a look at each team and how their draft will potentially pan out on June 26-27. With all 30 sides in their own unique situation, there is plenty to unpack ahead of the next injection of exciting players.

The first team under the microscope for the week are the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are in the lottery due to a previous trade despite finishing as the top seed in the west.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Draft Selections

12

Contracted Players

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luguentz Dort, Chet Holmgren (team option), Joshua Giddey (team option), Kenrich Williams, Cason Wallace, Ousmane Dieng (team option), Jalen Williams (team option), Jaylin Williams, Isaiah Joe (team option), Aaron Wiggins (team option), Lindy Waters II (team option)

The Thunder have orchestrated one of the best rosters in the NBA, and one that is quite young as well. There is plenty of excitement around Oklahoma City’s roster, and the team now has the opportunity to add another piece for the future.

With their pick, the Thunder could add their forward stocks, with the power forward position the most likely selection. One player that fits the bill is Tyler Smith, who will slot into the side’s playing style extremely well given his ability to knock down shots from behind the arc.

Shooting has played a big role in the team’s success recently, and Smith is an exciting prospect given he stands six-foot-11 but is a genuine perimeter threat if left open. He would add to the already impressive stocks for the Thunder, and would be a seamless addition.

Another option could be Tidjane Salaun, who is a more raw prospect, but could turn into a two-way gun if he can develop at NBA level. The forward has excellent defensive traits as well as positional versatility, so he may be worth a punt as the Thunder do not have any urgent needs.