Thunderous Intentions
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If defense wins championships, the Thunder should be in good shape

By Bo Cardona

NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 28: Derrick Rose #25 of the New York Knicks shoots a jumper defended by Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at Madison Square Garden on November 28, 2016 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 28: Derrick Rose #25 of the New York Knicks shoots a jumper defended by Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at Madison Square Garden on November 28, 2016 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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CHARLOTTE, NC – MARCH 06: Nicolas Batum #5 watches as teammate Cody Zeller #40 of the Charlotte Hornets battles for the ball against Paul George #13 of the Indiana Pacers during their game at Spectrum Center on March 6, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC – MARCH 06: Nicolas Batum #5 watches as teammate Cody Zeller #40 of the Charlotte Hornets battles for the ball against Paul George #13 of the Indiana Pacers during their game at Spectrum Center on March 6, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

The addition of Paul George means the OKC Thunder will make a huge jump on more than just one end of the floor.

The trade that sent Paul George to Oklahoma City completely changed the dynamic of the 2017-2018 season for the Thunder.

With Russell Westbrook on the break of free agency, OKC needs to do whatever it can to retain him. Sam Presti is doing that with the moves he is making in the front office. The Thunder became a likely contender for a top 4 seed with Paul George. The explosion between George and Westbrook will call for ridiculous fast breaks and highlight reel replays anytime they are both on the floor.

Related Content: OKC Thunder: Paul George Trade Q and A

Though many only see the aspect of the trade that effects the offensive end, the defense will reap the most benefits. Paul George made All Defense Second Team twice (2013, 2016) and made the All Defense First Team in 2014. As a solidified two-way player, George can guard any opposing teams best player. His length disrupts passing lanes and makes it easier for him to contest shots. Add in his defensive IQ and George is one of the best perimeter defenders in the league.

Furthermore, it seems to appear people see Westbrook as only an offensive weapon. Lets not forget that he was the PAC-10 Defensive Player of the Year. Also, in Westbrooks early years his play style was centered around the steal and run game. He thrived off ripping the ball from an opponent and sprinting to the other end of the court like Usain Bolt. His defense may have died a little in his MVP winning season, but that is simply because he could not do it all.

Another reason Westbrook’s defense slacked a little is due to his teammate Andre Roberson. Let’s not forget about this guy. The guy who who stood up every time James Harden did in the playoffs. The guy who is only 25 and has potentially the best one-on-one defense in the league.

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Roberson is still a free agent, but he is restricted so the Thunder can match any other offer. Many believe the $4m in salary cap acquired in the George trade will probably be to bring back their defensive anchor. Additionally, if Roberson is resigned the Oklahoma City will have two lock down wing defenders. Mix in a fast and gritty Russell Westbrook and teams are going to fear heading to Loud City.

(To note, this doesn’t include the pain protection Steven Adams gives you.)

Conclusion

In conclusion, the combination of Westbrook, Roberson, George, Patrick Patterson (who was recently picked up in free agency) and Adams will likely be on the floor more than any other lineup this season.

The combination of length, athleticism and basketball IQ will be devastating. Thrown in the defensive-minded coach that Billy Donavan is, and Oklahoma City could have the best defense in the league next season.

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