Good Landing Spot: Oklahoma City Thunder

The Oklahoma City Thunder would be a fitting destination for the lightning-quick rookie.

The Thunder already have a lead guard in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Shai is a versatile scorer and passer, and a master manipulator of the pick-and-roll even at his young age. Ivey would present an intriguing backcourt duo next to him.

The most exciting part of Ivey’s game is the ability to attack the rim. Ivey is a skilled finisher both through and around contact. While he got to the rim with ease with his on-ball reps at Purdue, playing alongside Shai could make him even more dangerous. As teams shade to cover a pick-and-roll action involving Shai, Ivey could provide a lob or slashing threat against an exposed defense.

Ivey’s shooting is effective as well, and he could space the floor playing alongside skilled passers like Shai and Josh Giddey.

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Jaden Ivey’s biggest question mark heading into the NBA is his defense, though he has the physical tools to be successful. This would not present much of an issue in OKC – not because their defense is good, but rather the opposite.

Oklahoma City is not looking to contend any time soon – Ivey would flourish offensively in OKC, and would have time to work on his defensive game as OKC continues to build its roster.