Injuries have played a massive role in the Oklahoma City Thunder’s title defense this season, especially during this current stretch. However, that has also opened the door for the primarily defensive player, Cason Wallace, to show off his offensive game.
Currently, the two leading scorers from last season’s NBA Champions are out. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has not played since February 4th, while Jalen Williams has only played in 26 games this season, missing the last four. On top of that, Chet Holmgren was a recent addition to the injury report, right before a potential Finals preview against the Detroit Pistons.
Those injuries have given an opportunity for Wallace to showcase his offensive growth, while still leading the NBA in steals. Over the last two games, he is averaging 23.5 points and 8.5 assists, well above his season averages of 8.6 and 2.5.
– Mark Daigneault on Cason Wallace’s impact lately
When talking to the media after Wallace’s second big offensive night, head coach Mark Daigneault said, “You never know when a guy is going to pop”. Daigneault continued to say, “If the player stays at it, which he (Wallace) has, you never know when things are going to come together, and he has really shown a lot of growth.”
Let’s Take a Look at Cason Wallace’s Two-Game Growth
GettyCason Wallace with the ball, trying to get around a defender.
Over these last two games, it is really hard not to acknowledge that Wallace’s game has taken a big step forward. He set a career high in assists in a win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Then followed that up by tying his career high in points, with 27 points in a win against the Toronto Raptors.
at Raptors: 27 PTS (tied career-high) 8 REB 6 AST 4-5 3PT
vs. Cavs: 20 PTS 10 AST (career-high) 4 REB 3 STL
Despite being selected 10th overall in the 2023 Draft, Wallace has never really shown his offensive game. He has spent most of his time being one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA. Wallace was the Defensive Player of the Month in November this season, currently leading the league in total steals, at 116, and averaging 2.1 per game.
Defensively, it is clear how Wallace impacts games. However, on offense, Wallace’s role in his first three seasons has mostly been him planted in the corner, spacing the floor, and hitting threes when the ball finds him. This season, Wallace is taking 7.7 field goal attempts per game, four of which came from behind the arc.
During these last two games, Wallace’s game has expanded. He is still hitting his 3s, going 8-13 over the two games, but his play within the arc has expanded. Wallace has attacked the core of defenses, averaging 10 shots in the paint and restricted area. Due to the absences, Wallace has become the offensive engine in the last two games, literally, driving to the paint. That has also allowed Wallace showcase his playmaking, with 17 assists over these two games.
What is Next For Wallace Offensively and His Contract
GettyCason Wallace with the ball going up for the layup.
Right now, Wallace is taking full advantage of his opportunities. However, the Thunder will be tested in their next game, facing the Pistons. The Thunder have the best defensive rating in the league, at 107.5. The Pistons are not far behind, sitting in second with a defensive rating of 109.1.
Facing a tough defensive opponent for Wallace will be a test, and his expanded offensive role. After two strong games, Wallace will have defenses’ attention, and the Pistons have multiple players they can throw at him.
Finally, there is one glaring overarching question for Wallace this season. Next season is Wallace’s last under his rookie deal. If this offensive production can be sustained, Wallace could seek out a bigger extension from the Thunder. It could also drive up his market value, with restricted free agency around the corner.
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