5 Adjustments OKC Thunder Need to Make For Game 2

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Apr 16, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) scores a basket during the second quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder in game one of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Paint Patrol

These two stats jump out. First, the Rockets out rebounded the Thunder 56-41, of which 14 were offensive boards as opposed to the Thunder’s 7. Next, the Thunder lost the paint battle 62-38.

Coming into the game, the concern was that the Thunder would concede too many 3 pointers. However, the Thunder can’t even defend their own paint now.

For a team built on getting to the rim and protecting their own, this is very concerning.

MUST READ: Thunder go down embarrassingly to Houston

This is also one reason why I have reservations about the Gibson-Grant pairing so many are screaming for. They help cover the pick-and-roll better, but I’m not sure if they will rebound and block shots better. I’m concerned this move would serve to plug one gaping hole only to allow another to rip wide open.

This job falls primarily on the Big Kiwi. No one else can protect the paint and rebound the way he does. But the rest of the team need to help out with small things like boxing out and help defense. It’s partially systemic, but it’s also a mental issue.

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