NBA Mock Draft: Emoni Bates to OKC?

Could Emoni Bates be a second-round target for the Thunder?

Entering the 2023 NBA Draft, the Oklahoma City Thunder has three selections, one in the first round and two in the second. After selecting three potential cornerstones in the lottery last summer, Oklahoma City could look to add another trio of puzzle pieces in the 2023 NBA Draft

Matt Babcock of Draft Digest released a mock draft for the 2023 class following the NBA Draft Combine, which gives insight into where some of the top players in the upcoming rookie class could land. His projection has the Thunder selecting a high upside prospect in the second round at pick No. 50 overall.

Junfu Han-USA TODAY NETWORK

Emoni Bates just a few years ago looked like he was trending towards becoming a generational talent. While he's struggled a bit more recently, and has seen some off the court issues, he still has tremendous upside. He's even worked out with the Thunder in the pre-draft process.

At 6-foot-10, Bates is an elite scorer but needs to put together a more well-rounded game to stick in the NBA. In a system like Oklahoma City, a patient development track could end up being beneficial for the unique prospect. In terms of positional size, he does check that box for the Thunder, as he could play upwards of three positions at the next level if he can get stronger. Known for being a bucket, he could end up becoming a legitimate scoring threat off the bench for OKC in just a few years. 

Especially since this would be their third pick, the Thunder could absolutely swing for the fences at pick No. 50 overall in next month's draft.

---

Want to join the discussion? Like SI Thunder on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date on all the latest Thunder news. You can also meet the team behind the coverage.