Dion Waiters has had quite the interesting NBA career thus far. The Syracuse University standout was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the 4th overall pick in the 2012 draft, and appeared destined to join forces with Kyrie Irving as the team’s backcourt of the future. However, LeBron James‘ return to Cleveland significantly diminished Waiters’ role, and the Thunder acquired him in January of last year.
Waiters’ first year with OKC was littered with up-and-down play, and the lack of consistent play and an unequivocal vote of confidence from then Thunder coach Scott Brooks left many believing that his future with the team was bleak. However, in these playoffs, Waiters has solidified himself as a key two-way player for the Thunder, and he performed masterfully during their semifinal series against the Spurs.
Still, there are flashes of inconsistent decision-making, and on one particular play last night, Waiters had the opportunity to hit a wide-open Kevin Durant with a pass on a fast-break, and he passed up that chance. A few seconds later, Waiters got the ball to Durant, who turned around to hit a quick jumper, but KD was still pretty peeved about the missed opportunity for the easier basket. How do we know? He smiled at Waiters after the play, and said “f*ck you” a handful of times.
Things weren’t as jubilant after the game, however. The Thunder got blown out by 27 points. Game 3 is on Sunday.
