Aday Mara arrives to the Oklahoma City Thunder highly touted out of Michigan, and the 12th overall pick recently earned high praise from coach Mark Daigneault.
Mara was the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, averaging 12.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.6 blocks and 2.4 assists while shooting 66.8% from the field. He ranked third in the country in total blocks (103) and became the first Wolverine to record 100 or more in a season.
The 7-foot Spaniard was linked to the Thunder throughout the predraft process as a player who can impact games and provide additional depth in the frontcourt. Daigneault is enamored with his two-way impact because it offers lineup flexibility.
When guys are two-end players, it becomes very easy to play them and construct
lineups around them. That's what gives you lineup versatility: Having guys out there who can handle both ends of the floor. He has got a two-end impact. He is a very good screen setter for a young player. He obviously has good passing instincts. He has got great hands. He is a great roller, an elite roller, actually; it is probably his best offensive skill. Defensively, he has got the rim stuff, and he is pretty mobile. That's all without a lot of game experience, strength. He is only going to get better with that stuff, but he is off to a great start.
Mara is averaging 17 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists and two blocks through the Thunder's first two preseason games. Impressively, he hasn't missed a shot yet, converting all 15 of his field-goal attempts in nearly 44 minutes of action.
The 21-year-old has been a tremendous lob threat for his Thunder teammates early on, while he is also cleaning the glass at a high level. Mara has dazzled in the open court, helping lead the charge after defensive stops or rebounds, areas that should certainly benefit the team.
Though his showing has come in the preseason, Mara is off to a productive start for the Thunder. He is impressing those around him and appears poised for a large role this season.
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Thunder coach Mark Daigneault raves about Aday Mara's two way impact
