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The Thunder recently sent Hamidou Diallo to the Detroit Pistons in a trade deal that saw Svi Mykhailiuk and a future draft pick move in the opposite direction. Diallo, who spent the first two and a half years of his career in Oklahoma City had a message for the franchise as he bid them farewell.
Diallo took to Twitter to share a heartfelt parting statement for his former squad:
— Hamidou Diallo (@hamidoudiallo) March 14, 2021
The Thunder selected Diallo in 2018 as a second-round pick. This season, the 6-foot-5 swingman took a significant step in his development, and he's played a key role for OKC throughout the campaign. His season averages of 11.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.0 steals caught the eye of Detroit and they decided to make a move for the highly-touted 22-year-old.
It is clear in his message that parting ways with the Thunder is a bittersweet moment for Diallo. It's never easy to walk away from a place you've called home for years, and this is exactly what the former Kentucky standout is saying in his statement here.
Nevertheless, Diallo's move to Detroit presents a great opportunity for him. He's reportedly set to fill a significant role with the Pistons, who themselves see Diallo as a “core player moving forward.” Big things could be in line for Diallo as he looks to take on a clean slate with his new team.
As for the Thunder, the recent emergence of Luguentz Dort was one of the primary reasons behind the team's decision to part ways with Diallo. Aside from the acquisition of Mykhailiuk, the Thunder have also added yet another future draft pick in what has become quite a collection for OKC.
