Former Purdue guard and top-five projected pick Jaden Ivey spoke with the media on Monday in his pre-draft media availability, where he talked about his contact with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Ivey said that while he didn’t make the trip to Oklahoma City for a workout, Thunder personnel were in attendance in Los Angeles for his workouts.
“After pro day, they came to watch me work out. I didn’t go to OKC to work out. I think the Thunder’s an up-and-coming team,” said Ivey. “They have a lot of young talent. I think I can help that organization if they draft me.”
Ivey also said that his role models are Ja Morant and Thunder legend Russell Westbrook — linking himself to a hyper-athletic guard with superb aggressiveness.
Ivey has been linked to the Thunder several times as a potential wildcard at No. 2. When asked about a potential fit with the Sacramento Kings at No. 4, Ivey didn’t sound too excited about the possibility as he revealed he hasn’t worked out for the team.
“If I got drafted there, it wouldn’t be the worst option,” said Ivey.
Even with the recent smoke surrounding the Thunder and Ivey, it’s still hard to imagine the team taking him at No. 2. If the Thunder are to select Ivey, it will likely happen with a trade — whether it’s a trade down from No. 2 or a trade up from No. 12.
