Oklahoma City Thunder rookie Josh Giddey logged only five minutes during the Las Vegas Summer League, but the sixth overall pick made up for lost time on Monday during his preseason debut.
Giddey recorded 18 points, seven rebounds and three assists in 29 minutes of work during a 113-97 loss to the Charlotte Hornets. He converted on 8-of-12 shot attempts from the field, including 2-of-4 from 3-point range, during his first extended action with the Thunder.
In typical fashion, Giddey dazzled during his time on the court.
He established himself as an excellent passer last year with the Adelaide 36ers in the National Basketball League. As a result, he is viewed as perhaps the best passer in the draft this year, and had that ability on full display on Monday night.
Hello everyone, this is Josh Giddey pic.twitter.com/dwn4CSuMoV
— Lachie Everett (@LachieEverett) October 5, 2021
Giddey entered summer league with plenty of hype until an ankle injury cut his run short just minutes into his debut game. However, those within the organization will likely have plenty to cheer about this season as he is back to dishing out dimes now that he is fully healthy.
Overall, he looked to be one of the more experienced players on the floor given his professional resume in the NBL. He figures to have a great shot at being in the Rookie of the Year race given that experience, and will likely even be one of the more entertaining first-year players.
The Thunder return to action on Sunday versus the Milwaukee Bucks.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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