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The OKC Thunder Triple Double Show is Proof of a Failed Coach

By Eric Snyder

Feb 6, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder coach Billy Donovan reacts from the sidelines against the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The Pacers won 93-90. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 6, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder coach Billy Donovan reacts from the sidelines against the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The Pacers won 93-90. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

Barring something unforeseen happening, there won’t be any coaching changes for the OKC Thunder.  For the Thunder to take the next step change must come from the Head Coach.

The Thunder Need Some Lightning:

Whether it be a Gregg Popovich or a Bill Belichick, all undeniably great coaches are leaders, not followers.  So far in his tenure with Oklahoma City, Billy Donovan has been a follower.  His players obviously like him and there is something to be said for that.  However, Billy D should know that likability and deference to the cause of Russell Westbrook is not leadership.

At some point, a strong-willed coach will have to confront Russell Westbrook.  Billy Donovan is not that coach.  If this team had a solid veteran presence there would be no reason for strong-willed leadership from the Coach.  However, as young and inexperienced as this team is, they need a coach; not a friend.

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Early in the season, a case could have been made for Billy Donovan to be the NBA Coach of the Year.  Donovan has done well to keep the team in contention.  He has navigated his team through injuries and high-level competition.

Sam Presti won the Trade deadline when he traded for and gave Donovan everything he needed: shooting and interior defense.  Yet, Donovan hasn’t been able to take advantage of those gifts.

What he has done is the same thing he has done all year: pray for a Westbrook triple-double.  The historical accomplishments already made by Russell Westbrook have distracted fans from a Coach who has not and is not doing his job.

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