Oklahoma City Thunder: 3 standouts from Orlando Summer League

ORLANDO, FL - JULY 6: Popeye Jones of the Indiana Pacers leads his team in the handshake line after the Mountain Dew Orlando Pro Summer League game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on July 6, 2017 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images /

Dakari Johnson

The Thunder selected Johnson in the second round of the 2015 NBA Draft. They used the 18th pick in the round, No. 48 overall, on the Kentucky sophomore center. Johnson has yet to appear in a game with the Thunder’s NBA team, playing in the G League with the Blue, but that could change this season.

Johnson agreed to a guaranteed two-year deal with the Thunder on July 22 and earned that deal. Johnson has grown in the G League since being selected and deserves to be on the NBA roster. He showcased that growth in the Orlando Summer League.

Johnson showcased more aggression and polish offensively. He has seen his shot attempts rise each year in Summer League and during G League play, and this year was no different.

Johnson averaged a team-high 18 points per game, making 56.9 percent of his shots. That was almost as good as he shot from the foul line, where he struggled, making only 58.3 percent.

It was surprising to see him not hit the boards as much as in years past. In his first two Summer Leagues, Johnson averaged 8.6 rebounds; this year he averaged only 5.5. However, he did turn the ball over less, which shows an improved basketball IQ and better decision-making.

Johnson isn’t a finished product, but he is definitely improved. He was arguably the most impressive player for the Thunder in Orlando.