Despite battling for a top spot in the Western Conference, the OKC Thunder still have an impressive number of picks, including a projected lottery pick for the 2024 NBA Draft.
Let’s take a look at DaRon Holmes II and how he would fit into the Thunder system.
Profile Project
Height: 6’10
Weight: 221
Span: N / A
Age: 21
School: Dayton
Rapid screening report
Holmes II has seen his stock rise ahead of the 2024 NBA Draft and that will only continue as the Dayton Flyers navigate the madness of the NCAA Tournament. Averaging 20.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 2.9 actions per game, the junior has improved his shooting by converting the 3 ball at a rate of 38 percent.
If Holmes II can truly space the court at the next level, something that seems projectable by pairing his 3-point surge with a smooth jump shot and hitting that 70 percent mark from the free throw line, he instantly becomes a place in the NBA as a player. great modern man.
Strengths and weaknesses
Strengths
The Dayton Flyer big man is a typical game-finishing big man. His screening versatility keeps defenses off-balance and allows his offense to create mismatches. As a roll man, cutter and spot dunker, Holmes II will be a force at the next level. He can live above the rim as a lofted threat.
Holmes II in a role where he is not the best player on the court, he plans to improve the game. By making quick decisions at the elbow or as a roller with the ball in his hands or swinging the stone around the perimeter, he could be a high-end connective playmaker.
His shot-blocking timing is excellent and he rarely sacrifices his positioning to do so, making him a premium rim protector. Seeing him on an island is not an automatic panic situation and effort plays will generate more possessions for his team, triggering a transition.
Weaknesses
There is some question as to whether his shooting jump is for real during this junior season, however, there are some signs that should make you feel good. There are still some questions about how he can handle life in the NBA as a pick-and-roll defender when he’s not playing drop, but ultimately Holmes II is one of the best big man hopes of the 2024 class.
Thunder Cup
Future role
Holmes II would project as a high-level bench player on many teams or as a fifth-best starter on some teams. His rim finishing, floor spacing threat, and motor make him a winning player who can fit into almost any NBA team.
Rotation adjustment
The Flyers big man instantly lands the role as the Thunder’s backup big man if Oklahoma City selects him in the 2024 NBA Draft. With Mark Daigneault’s willingness to explore lineups, Holmes II and Holmgren could be a big change in pace for the Thunder against certain matchups.
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