Oklahoma City has discovered a hidden gem in the development of Aaron Wiggins, as the 25-year-old is blossoming into an integral piece on one of the most talented teams in the Western Conference.
On an already young and exuberant team, Aaron Wiggins is the multifaceted tool that can help truly round a team out once he reaches his full potential. Picked in the 55th spot in 2021, it's seemed Sam Presti has struck again -- this time with a very late selection.
Heading into his fourth year in the league, Wiggins has developed a foundation to be a starter on a multitude of teams in the league. But with Oklahoma City's depth and a map planned out among its young core, it's difficult for Wiggins to carve out a much more impactful role on the team. Though, even without 20 minutes a night, his production on the floor far exceeds the on-court time expended on him.
In year three, the 25-year-old Maryland product generated 6.9 points on 49.2% from three and 56.2% overall, 2.4 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 15.7 minutes and four starts. This role appeared to be a decrease on paper from his first two seasons, but the impact he provided on the team with the best record in the Western Conference was invaluable.
Additionally, his reduction from 18.5 minutes per contest and 14 starts in his sophomore campaign to his numbers from this season showed zero regression in his point and assist totals. In fact, the only stats where he regressed came in rebounding and free throw percentage. Looking to his shooting efficiency, it increased greatly, nearly 10% from three and 5% from the field.
Getting to this point takes a lot of humility and patience, as his selflessness has led to him embracing his all-purpose play style and offering to his team what others might not be able to. This is just one aspect of his value, and the Thunder should be lucky to realize what they have in a player like him as a reserve -- because if any other team did, he'd likely find himself with more opportunities to impart his skill set.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
OKC Thunder Could Take Familiar Route With Aaron Wiggins Contract TalksThe Oklahoma City Thunder could take a familiar route with Aaron Wiggins' contract talk ahead of an interesting offseason in Bricktown.
Read more »
'It Was An Experience': Aaron Wiggins Opens up in Exit InterviewThe Thunder guard's third-year leap showed a more refined game as he and Oklahoma City head into the offseason following their playoff departure.
Read more »
Thunder Gameday: OKC Thunder Vye For Pivotal Game 5 Win Vs. MavericksThe Oklahoma City Thunder will vie fora pivotal Game 5 Against the Dallas Mavericks after knotting up the series at two games apiece.
Read more »
Thunder Game Day: OKC Thunder Seek Sweep, First Playoff Series Win Since 2016The Oklahoma City Thunder will look for a series sweep over the New Orleans Pelicans in the Bayou on Monday.
Read more »
Aaron Boone Says He Awarded Aaron Judge the Game Ball After First EjectionThe Yankees manager welcomed Aaron Judge to the ejection club.
Read more »
Aaron Eckhart's Action Transformation Was Predicted By A Forgotten 2012 ThrillerAaron Eckhart as Steve Vail from The Bricklayer and Aaron Eckhart as Ben Logan from Erased.
Read more »