Dennis Schroder, Oklahoma City Thunder
The Oklahoma City Thunder emerged as one of the biggest surprise stories in the Western Conference this season. Before the hiatus, the Thunder was were on pace to be a top 5 or 6 seed in the West heading into the playoffs. Perhaps with the guidance of Chris Paul, Dennis Schroder emerged as a key cog for OKC in 2019-20.
After a solid first season with the Thunder last season, Schroder managed to take another step this season. Schroder was on pace to finish with his most efficient season to date and was averaging 19 points per game. Schroder was essentially putting up starter numbers in a non-starter role.
After the Thunder acquired Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Schroder became somewhat of an afterthought. However, I don’t think anyone will consider him an afterthought after the season he put together in 2019-20. There’s no question he exceeded expectations this past season.