Round Table Discussion: 2015-16 Season Expectations and Predictions
By David Ramil
Oct 7, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) looks on during the first half against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
In our latest round table discussion, we make our predictions, list our expectations and make wild guesses about the 2015-16 NBA season.
What are you most excited to see this season?
Shawn Woods: Kevin Durant, and I’m not sure there’s another correct answer. The debacle of last season is officially over, and for the first time in recent memory, the Thunder appear to be at full strength. With a healthy roster, a new coach and players on the roster that haven’t played meaningful minutes together, how could one not be excited for the new season?
Jeremy Lambert: The return of Kevin Durant. It was only preseason, but when he went off at the end of the game against the Utah Jazz, it just reminded me of what we missed last season. He’s the best scorer in the league and can beat opponents in a variety of ways. The Thunder is a better team with him on the court and the league is better when he’s healthy.
Sam Livingston: I don’t care if this is the same answer as everyone else’s. Kevin Durant is back and he is back with a focused vengeance the likes of which I don’t think we’ve ever seen out of him before. KD wants everyone to know he’s back, hence the incredible preseason he’s had. He wants to light the league on fire and remind everyone that the last time he was healthy, he was the NBA’s clear MVP.
Rucker Haringey: Kevin Durant is the easy and as Shawn said, the only right answer for this question. More specifically, I’m anxious to see how Durant handles certain road trips. What does he say on the trip to Washington? How will his relationship with the fans and media twist and turn with free agency looming? I’m very curious to see how his personality’s perception shifts.
Ali Ahmed: There’s no way Kevin Durant doesn’t top this list. The surgery before last season was enough heartache, but two more procedures? That was brutal for any fan. After watching the preseason, I am now convinced our old KD is back. The elephant in the room all season will be his impending free agency, and of course, those #KD2DC hashtags flooding our timelines – but still, he’s back guys.
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