OKC Thunder: Will Cason Wallace Make an All-Rookie Team?

The Thunder have showcased plenty of young talent this season, and Cason Wallace has been in the middle of that.

Apr 7, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Cason Wallace (22) / Scott Kinser-USA TODAY Sports

The Oklahoma City Thunder have more than one star rookie, and the NBA’s All-Rookie teams could reflect that.

The Thunder’s swath of young talent has catapulted them to the top of the Western Conference ahead of the team’s first playoff run. As the youngest No. 1 seed in league history, the Thunder’s rookies have played a significant role in their success this season.

Likely Rookie of the Year runner-up Chet Holmgren has started all 82 games for Oklahoma City and transformed the team’s attack on both ends. Although Holmgren’s season is poised to get him a unanimous spot on the All-Rookie First Team, Cason Wallace’s impressive first year has been somewhat overlooked.

Alongside his star teammate, Wallace was one of only two rookies to play in 82 games this season. That includes 13 starts, beginning with an In-Season Tournament matchup against Golden State in the sixth game of the season.

Since the season began, the trust coaches and teammates have in Wallace has been undeniable. That trust was easy to earn with Wallace’s effort and ability on defense.

Wallace was an on-ball pest and often played near or at the level of Thunder defensive anchor Lu Dort. Wallace averaged 0.9 steals and often had the task of guarding the best perimeter player, particularly when Dort was not on the floor.

In playing 20.6 minutes per game, Wallace played a vital role in the Thunder’s top five defense. With the Thunder ranking in the top five on both sides, Wallace’s offense gave the team a boost. He finished the season averaging 6.8 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists. Although he ranked 22nd in usage among 26 rookies who played at least 50 games, Wallace’s efficiency was eye-catching. Making 41.9% of his looks from beyond the arc, Wallace was one of Oklahoma City’s sharpshooters who helped the team rank first in 3-point percentage.

Wallace’s stats do not necessarily scream All-Rookie, but his impact on a 57-win team with championship aspirations is not typical for a rookie.

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