The Thunder own the No. 6 overall pick in the upcoming draft and James Bouknight is generating some buzz to be the selection at that pick.
Bouknight has had a good deal of contact with the Thunder revealing to FortyEightMinutes and other media on Monday that he previously had dinner with Thunder GM Sam Presti while on a workout in Oklahoma City.
When asked about his fit with the Thunder, Bouknight said he and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander could form a deadly backcourt in OKC. He added that if you add Lu Dort into the equation, “We could really build something in Oklahoma.”
The athletic, 6’5 guard believes he could turn into a high-level two-way player. His transition offense and finishing around the rim could become a valuable asset to whatever team takes him, especially if he does ramp up his defensive production. Bouknight also said his defense is “not a weakness.”
Bouknight has had plenty of noise surrounding his name and his rising draft stock. He said that he’s not paying attention to the mock drafts, but he sees it.
“I’m not worried about it,” says Bouknight while adding that being drafted is a surreal moment. “…for many, this is a lifelong dream.”
Since leaving UCONN and declaring for the draft, Bouknight says that his three-point shot is the aspect of his game that has improved the most. “I feel like I’m a way better shooter than the numbers indicate,” Bouknight said.
Bouknight was asked what players he modeled his game after, if any, and he said that he feels like his game is unique, adding that he didn’t have a personal trainer like many high-level prospects in high school so he worked on his game differently.
