The Oklahoma City Thunder strengthened their depth with the free-agent addition of Bismack Biyombo. The 31-year-old was a prominent starter for the Memphis Grizzlies this season before being waived in January.
In 30 games with the Grizzlies, Biyombo averaged 5.2 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.1 blocks.
Biyombo is expected to join the Thunder following the All-Star break as he gives them another option as a backup big. It’s a low-risk signing for someone who can provide spot minutes when needed off the bench.
He also provides OKC with some size, which is necessary considering how small its roster is.
Get to know Biyombo and what he can bring to the Thunder:
Biyombo's career profile and career thus far
Biyombo was taken with the seventh pick in the 2011 NBA draft. He played his first four seasons with the Charlotte Hornets/Bobcats. After that, he bounced around the league as a journeyman big with the Toronto Raptors, Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns and Memphis Grizzlies.
The 31-year-old played a pivotal role for the Raptors in their 2016 playoff run, which earned him a nice paycheck that offseason.
In his career, he’s averaged 5.1 points on 53.5% shooting, six rebounds and 1.3 blocks.
Biyombo on offense
It’s a pretty simple role for Biyombo on offense. He’s your traditional rim-running big who shoots exclusively inside of the paint. Over 77% of his field goals resulted in assists.
The 6-foot-8 center plays bigger than his size. He’ll serve as a nice dunking threat who can finish inside of the paint. Outside of that, he’s pretty limited as an offensive threat. The 3-point shot is nonexistent and he’s a career 55% free-throw shooter.
Biyombo on defense
This is what Biyombo was likely signed for. He is a large body who can provide Chet Holmgren the occasional rest and gives OKC another option when it wants to run a big lineup.
Biyombo is averaging 1.1 blocks this season in 24 minutes. The shot-contesting is there for him. On the flip side, he averages nearly three fouls a game too.
Biyombo can be a nice situational backup center when facing some of the larger frontcourts in the West such as the Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Lakers.
