Welcome to Views from OKC, Thunderous Intentions’ daily roundup of the best OKC Thunder stories across the web.
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Thunder and Trail Blazers squeeze in game before Super Bowl
“Before the Thunder takes on its Northwest Division rival Trail Blazers, Donovan took the chance to also reflect on the impact Collison had against the Grizzlies. As the team faces more and more challenging matchups during this month of February and down the line, it’s important that the team displays the same type of toughness and dedication that Collison displayed on Friday.”
Whew. Even though the Thunder have recently played the Mavericks and Pelicans, it feels like OKC hasn’t played an “easy” opponent in quite some time. Portland comes in with an ugly 8-18 away record; the Thunder are countering with a 17-7 home record. I really believe it was important for these young guys to see Nick Collison, who never plays, bust his face open in the name of getting a dub. Hopefully they start bringing that type of intensity every night now.
Must Read: Five statistics that correlate with Thunder wins and losses
A new top two in the MVP rankings
“That doesn’t mean Durant and Curry have cleared all of their hurdles. They’ll have to prove this chemistry translates into the postseason as well. But it’s clear their mutual admiration of each other’s game has gone to another level now that they’ve had time to adjust.”
I had to wait a couple days before I felt comfortable addressing this situation. I still don’t know if I have the temperament to publish words to the public. But I have to. BECAUSE HOW IN THE HECK CAN YOU ARGUE THAT KEVIN DURANT IS MORE VALUABLE TO THE WARRIORS THAN RUSSELL WESTBROOK IS TO THE THUNDER?!?!?! I still think it’s wild to think Russ could lose the MVP even if he leads the league in scoring and averages a triple-double, but now you got my mans third? Wow.
Views from Twitter
Briante Weber already has a nickname from his Warriors teammates: "Baby Russ." "That means a lot coming from them," Weber said.
— Connor Letourneau (@Con_Chron) February 4, 2017
People just love disrespecting Russell Westbrook. First they say he’s third in MVP voting, now a D-Leaguer on a 10-day contract is being compared to him. Add another link to the Golden State Petty Chain.
Donovan said he's unsure of Alex Abrines' (back spasms) status for tomorrow. Didn't want to give a doubtful/questionable/probable on it.
— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) February 4, 2017
It’s been three games without Alex Abrines appearing in an Oklahoma City Thunder game. That is not good for my well-being. Please play today Mr. Abrines.
Happy Super Bowl Sunday everyone. My prediction? I’m all in on the Dirty Birds.
Atlanta Falcons 38, New England Patriots 35