Surviving the Storm: Ousmane Dieng Defies Thunder Trade Rumors and Secures Another Shot at NBA Glory
Ousmane Dieng, the promising French forward, has once again managed to survive the Thunder’s roster purges, raising eyebrows across the league. Last year, the focus was on Josh Giddey being part of trade rumors, only for Dieng to escape the chopping block. This year, with 2024 first-round pick Dillon Jones being traded to the Washington Wizards, many speculated that Dieng’s time in Oklahoma City was running out. Despite this, the 22-year-old remains with the team, defying expectations once again.
Dieng, selected 11th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, still carries the allure of his potential. Yet, his on-court production has hardly matched that promise. In 109 NBA appearances, he has averaged just 4.3 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.0 assists while shooting a modest 42.4% from the field and a disappointing 29.3% from beyond the arc. These numbers have led to questions about his development and role in Oklahoma City’s crowded young core.
However, Dieng’s time with the OKC Blue in the G League has painted a much different picture. In 42 games with the affiliate, he’s put up 17.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game on 47.2% shooting, even winning a G League Finals MVP award. This improved play has fueled speculation that Dieng could thrive in a new environment, ideally on a rebuilding team with more minutes to offer. A franchise like the Wizards would be a perfect fit for his growth.
Yet, heading into the final year of his rookie contract, Dieng is still under the Thunder’s control. Whether he finally finds his footing in Oklahoma City or eventually gets traded, his survival through yet another round of roster reshuffling speaks volumes about the faith the franchise still has in him. The question now is whether that faith will eventually pay off.
