Why OKC Thunder and Jimmer Fredette May Be Perfect Match

According to Sam Amico of Fox Sports Ohio, the Thunder—in their never ending quest for offense—would love to pry Fredette away from the Kings.

Speaking of Kings, Jimmer Fredette would love to go someplace where someone other than just DeMarcus Cousins will
pass him the ball. Thunder would love to pry Fredette away from Kings as replacement for Derek Fisher. Kevin Durant is a Jimmer fan.

Now, while I’m always one to question both the validity and logic behind Mr. Amico’s usually absurd musings, I find myself accepting the train of thought put forth here.

In Sacramento, Fredette was supposed to be a savior, someone to help lead the team into prominence. But you know what happened? He crumbled under the expectations and the Kings utilized him in the worst ways possible; it was and remains a mutually bad fit.

The Thunder, however, would be a different story. In Oklahoma City, Fredette wouldn’t be asked to assume a prominent role. Hell, he wouldn’t even be asked to assume a role that holds any kind of significance. He’d be asked to become a bit player, someone who can be the ninth or 10th guy off the bench to provide some instant offense.

And that’s the type of role he needs. It comes with little, if any, pressure and allows him to hone and refine his skills to the point where he could play a more substantial part moving forward. The fact that the Thunder employ the type of run-and-gun offense that Fredette would thrive in is merely bonus.

Perhaps the most intriguing notion that would come out of such a union, though, is James Harden’s future. No, Fredette is no Harden, but he would give the Thunder a young scorer capable of playing both guard positions. And though he’s still rough around the edges, that’s exactly the responsibilities that Harden holds. Subsequently, could Fredette’s presence ultimately serve as a cheaper alternative to what will become an expensive Harden next summer?

Yes, it could. Fredette is nowhere near ready to put up the type of gaudy offensive totals Harden does, but he navigates the floor well, has a nice handle on the ball and can shoot the lights out of a building.

So, while nothing is guaranteed with Fredette, especially when comparing him to Harden, he gives Oklahoma City another avenue to explore. Simply put, there’s potential there.

And for a cash-conscious team like the Thunder—who are fresh off re-signing Serge Ibaka—potential comes a lot cheaper—and therefore may be worth a lot more to the team’s financial future—than a proven talent poised to command a massive pay-day.