OKC Thunder orbit offense around Aday Mara in preseason loss to Hawks

In a preseason loss to the Atlanta Hawks, the Oklahoma City Thunder showcased a new dimension of their offense centered around rookie Aday Mara. The 21-year-old, standing at 7-foot-3, demonstrated his versatility and work ethic during the game. Despite facing a heavily favored opponent, Mara managed to contribute significantly to the Thunder's effort.

Mara dominated the paint, using his size and strength to overpower NBA journeyman Jock Landale. He showcased his shooting ability with a fadeaway jumper that swished through the net, highlighting his potential beyond just using his physical attributes. The young player finished with 17 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, and four blocks, proving his value to the team in short-handed conditions.

Mark Daignault, the Thunder's assistant coach, expressed his satisfaction with Mara's performance. He believed that giving the rookie the responsibility of handling the offense was a positive move, allowing him to establish his skill level. Mara's improvement in handling the workload and his ability to take contact in the paint were particularly noteworthy aspects of his game.

The article highlights Mara's transformation from a below-60% free-throw shooter in college to a surprisingly reliable free-throw performer in the NBA preseason. This improvement in a critical aspect of his game could be a game-changer for the Thunder as they prepare for the upcoming season. Mara's ability to be the engine of the offense, particularly around the rim, suggests that he could be a valuable asset for the team moving forward.

As the Thunder continue to retool their roster and build around young talent, Mara's performance in this preseason game serves as a promising sign of what they might achieve in the future. His development and integration into the team's offensive system will be crucial as they aim to make a significant impact in the league.