Former Utes Branden Carlson Signs, Jakob Poeltl Shines In NBA
Nov 20, 2024, 10:37 AM | Updated: 11:12 am
MONTREAL, CANADA - OCTOBER 06: Anthony Gill #16 of the Washington Wizards and Branden Carlson #35 of the Toronto Raptors battle for position during the second half of a preseason NBA game at the Bell Centre on October 6, 2024 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Toronto Raptors defeated the Washington Wizards 125-98. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)
(Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY – The Oklahoma City Thunder inked former Utah Basketball star Branden Carlson to a one-year deal.
The standard NBA contract he signed guarantees Carlson’s place on the OKC roster for the season and a salary of $990,895.
Carlson was signed off of Toronto’s G-League affiliate, Raptors 905. In three games, the seven-footer averaged 14.3 points per game, 8.7 rebounds per game, and 3 assists per game.
Former Utah Basketball Star Branden Carlson Signs With OKC
The 7-foot, 220-pound Carlson enjoyed a stellar collegiate career at Utah. The former Runnin’ Utes became the all-time leader in blocks (241) and games played (146), and also finished top five in defensive rebounds (618), and scoring (1,892).
His evolution as a score over the final two seasons of his career has made him an intriguing option in the league.
Oklahoma City’s frontcourt has taken some hits, and an addition was needed. Their star, Chet Holmgren, is out for at least two months, while Isaiah Hartenstein and Jaylin Williams are also injured.
This gives Carlson an opportunity to make an impact and perhaps solidify the opportunity into something more.
Another Former Runnin’ Ute Star Big Man Shines
The former Runnin’ Utes big man, Jakob Poeltl, has been making headlines the last week. Over the last three games, Poeltl has played some of his best basketball.
The 7-footer has recorded the following stat lines:
- Nov. 18 vs IND – 38 minutes, 30 points, 15 rebounds, 2 blocks, 2 steals, 2 assists
- Nov. 16 vs BOS – 37 minutes, 35 points, 12 rebounds, 1 steal
- Nov. 15 vs DET – 35 minutes, 25 points, 18 rebounds, 3 blocks, 3 assists, 1 steal
Poeltl has been a modest but consistent contributor over his nine-year career. In his return to Toronto, Poeltl has played the most minutes and has enjoyed the highest usage rate of his career.
Through 15 games, Poeltl is averaging 32.9 minutes, 17.1 points, 11.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.3 blocks, and 1.2 steals.
