Cason Wallace was expected to have difficulty seeing immediate playing time with the Oklahoma City Thunder, but the 10th pick has contributed at a high level early this season.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault had hinted Wallace would need time before joining the rotation. However, the team has given Wallace the opportunity to play out of the gate, and the results have been encouraging.
Wallace is averaging 8.3 points, 2.8 rebounds and one assist in four appearances. He has been on fire, too, shooting 85.7% from the field and 83.3% from 3-point range (5-of-6).
But it has been more than his stats that has stood out to Daigneault.
What stands out is his intellect. He is incredibly smart. He has got an unbelievable capacity. … He is just a very engaged competitor, and he just plays the next play. You can put him in any situation, and he isn’t going to flinch at all. We’re moving him all over the place. We’re still learning, and he is still learning, obviously, but he has made a very positive first impression on us and the team.
Look at Cason Wallace pic.twitter.com/P7Xo4zFkcD
— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) October 29, 2023
Wallace was highly touted entering the NBA draft for his ability as a defender. His physical attributes have enabled him to lock down the opposition, but his knack for anticipating plays and his IQ have also helped him on that end, too.
Daigneault recalled some recent highlights of his.
The other night against Cleveland, we had a game plan where we were rotating to certain players and not rotating to others, and I don’t think he missed one of those. The next game against Denver, he was switching matchups on the floor for us because he kind of knew the intent of our game plan.
After impressing early, Wallace appears to have solidified his place in the rotation. He has affected games and should be poised for a strong rookie campaign.
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