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Sam Presti: A Tale of Drafting Success and Failure
Sam Presti holds a unique distinction in the NBA as the only executive to draft three future MVPs in three consecutive drafts. This remarkable achievement was a blend of luck, risk-taking, chance, and foresight. By selecting Kevin Durant in 2007, Russell Westbrook in 2008, and James Harden in 2009, Presti laid the foundation for the Oklahoma City Thunder’s success following their relocation from Seattle.
The trio of Durant, Westbrook, and Harden went on to achieve great individual success, with each winning an MVP award and being named among the Top 75 Players in NBA history. Despite this historic drafting prowess, the Thunder failed to secure an NBA championship during their time together. Presti’s inability to build a supporting cast around the trio is seen as an underachievement in the annals of sports history.
Unraveling the Draft Choices
Following the departure of Harden, Presti faced challenges in the draft, making several high-risk selections that failed to pan out as expected. Players like Reggie Jackson, Perry Jackson, Mitch McGary, and Cameron Payne failed to make a significant impact, highlighting Presti’s struggles in identifying talent beyond the top picks.
Despite some hits in the draft, including selections like Steven Adams and more recently Chet Holmgren, Presti’s draft record has been marred by a series of questionable decisions. The failed trade involving Alperen Şengün stands out as one of Presti’s worst missteps in recent years.
An Executive with Mixed Results
While Presti’s success in drafting MVP-caliber players early in his tenure is undeniable, his track record in the draft beyond those picks raises concerns. The inability to find impactful players in the later rounds and the losses in draft-day trades highlight Presti’s challenges in sustaining success through the draft.
Despite his reputation as a shrewd executive, Presti’s recent draft decisions have come under scrutiny, with questions raised about his ability to identify and develop talent outside of the lottery picks. While Presti’s mantra of taking bold risks has its merits, the lack of championships to show for his efforts underscores the importance of balanced decision-making in team-building.
As Presti navigates the challenges of rebuilding the Thunder franchise, his ability to learn from past mistakes and adapt his approach in the draft will be critical to shaping the team’s future. While his legacy as a draft wizard is secure, Presti faces the daunting task of translating that success into sustained on-court achievements for the Thunder.
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