Thunder player grades from win over defending champs

STEVEN ADAMS. A. If Most Improved Player was given to the guy who improved the most over the course of the season, Steven Adams would be the clear winner. Adams dominated Tristan Thompson tonight and all of a sudden that $100 million contract looks even better. At the beginning of the season Adams still relied on Russell Westbrook alley-oops and penetration to score, but now the Thunder are calling legitimate isolation post-up plays for the big man. Tonight he scored with his spin move-hook shot combo, his patented flip shot and of course a couple dunks on an efficient 9-14 shooting. Oh and he outrebounded Thompson 13-5, including grabbing a ridiculous 9 offensive boards. Simply put, Adams has been the biggest benefactor from Enes Kanter’s injury. He’s seeing an increase in minutes and offensive touches, and the role increase has only improved his skills as a leader.. Center. OKC Thunder