Aday Mara needs to be the answer to SGA’s ‘tougher’ Thunder request

Mark Nilon argues that Oklahoma City Thunder rookie center Aday Mara should be the solution to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's call for tougher rebounding. Following a 120-96 loss to the Dallas Mavericks, Gilgeous-Alexander stated that the Thunder need to fight more on the glass to generate second-chance opportunities and push pace, especially with Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace, and Alex Caruso dealing with injuries.

While the 7-foot-3 rookie has shown strong rim protection in his first five games, Nilon notes Mara averages only 4.2 rebounds in 15.8 minutes per contest. The writer contends that Mara must leverage his size to improve his rebounding production, which would both fulfill his superstar teammate's request and secure more playing time.