NBA 2019-20: 3 Reasons why OKC Thunder can make the playoffs next season

#1 The addition of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Danilo Gallinari

Gallinari played well for the Clippers last season

While the Thunder lost two great players, they gained a few good pieces. They acquired Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Danilo Gallinari in their deal with the Clippers. So, they have two players that can help them compete this season.

Last season, Gallinari averaged a career-high 19.8 points and 6.1 rebounds. He also averaged 19.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.3 steals during the playoffs. The veteran forward played two seasons with the Clippers, after he was involved in a three-team trade. The Nuggets sent him to the Clippers, while other pieces went to the Nuggets or the Hawks.

Gallinari is 30 years old and has a year left on his contract. He becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2020 and can go to any team he chooses. If things do not work out in Oklahoma City, Gallinari can move on or remain with the Thunder as they rebuild. If he decides to leave, the Thunder at least have him for a season as they make a playoff push. So, the addition of Gallinari benefits them and gives them a player to rely on.

Gilgeous-Alexander is entering the second year of his NBA career. He was the 11th pick of the 2018 draft when the Charlotte Hornets selected him. The Hornets traded him to the Clippers in exchange for Miles Bridges.

Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 10.8 points and 3.3 assists last season. He showed glimpses of being a talented point guard, especially during the Clippers' playoff run. He averaged 13.7 points and 3.2 assists in the playoffs as the Clippers lost a six-game series to the Warriors. The Thunder gained a young player with great potential when they received Gilgeous-Alexander. He could be a building block for the Thunder as well.

At the moment, the Thunder have a mix of veterans and young players. They have Steven Adams, Chris Paul, Gallinari. Then, they have players such as Gilgeous-Alexander and Darius Bazley. They also have a ton of future draft picks.

With their veterans and young players, the Thunder have a chance at a playoff run. If not, they have draft picks and youth to build their future. Either way, they are in a good position.