Quick Reaction: How Does OKC Deal With Steven Adams’ Injury?

May 3, 2014; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) attempts a shot against Oklahoma City Thunder forward

(9) during the second quarter in game seven of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

OPTION #2: Slide Ibaka to Center

PROS: Quality defender that can handle most of the centers in the league, while still providing some offense out of the position

CONS: An unproven or incapable player would have to start in his place at the power forward position

Ibaka has the bulk, experience and defensive acumen to be a stopgap center for the Thunder. He’s obviously a better offensive option than Perkins (or Adams). And, although his rebounding number are down this year, he’s still capable of working the boards. As a low post defender, these numbers might actually improve, as his expanded shooting range has taken him out of position on a number of rebounds this season.

There’s no doubt that Ibaka could handle the center position. The doubt lies in who would fill his place as the power forward.

Nick Collison would likely get the starting nod. With declining athleticism that was never elite to begin with, he’d bring what he always has throughout his career: toughness, tenacity and hustle…with little production. The offensive upgrade at center that Ibaka would provide is offset by Collison as a starter. Moreover, he’d be guarding quicker, stronger forwards (everyone from Zach Randolph to Dirk Nowitzki to Kenneth Faried – definitely running the gamut) that might get him in early foul trouble.

The only other option at power forward would be playing in just his fourth game as a rookie out of the University of Michigan.

Perhaps one of the best things to come from Sunday’s win over the Los Angeles Clippers was Mitch McGary‘s breakout performance. One of the unfortunate side effects, however, was the irrational feeling that McGary could become an instant contributor.

His numbers were undoubtedly impressive but they were buoyed by the absence of Blake Griffin, the defensive wizardly (note the sarcasm) of Spencer Hawes and the injury to Glen Davis. In other words, McGary had a big night against a woeful front line, which is what might happen against opposing teams with him as a starter.

McGary’s a feel-good story during a trying season but he’s too raw, too unproven and not a savvy defender to compensate for Adams’ loss. As a starter, Brooks’ only options on the bench would be to bring in Perkins at center (giving Ibaka much-needed rest) or Collison for short minutes. This lineup would be an offensive nightmare. McGary, for all that he did this past Sunday, is better suited as a reserve who’s capable of infusing energy and limited offense for short spurts.

Next: Time to Make a Move