Taking to the dais without his Stache Brother, Steven Adams enters Media Day no doubt with mixed feelings.
Although it was expected, it’s still worth noting Steven Adams remains the best quote in the business.
As each OKC Thunder player took to the podium to talk each commented on how much they’ll miss Enes Kanter. Many, including coach Billy Donovan cited how important Kanter was to the locker room. But, many expected Steven Adams would be missing Kanter the most. After all he is the other half of the ‘Stache Brothers’ duo.
But, when asked about Kanter’s trade to the New York Knicks, Adams didn’t miss a beat before stating: I mean he didn’t die mate – I’ll see him soon.
Adams went on to say he would see Enes in 3 weeks time (opening night). And elaborated that the relationships you make around here, will definitely stick. We’ll always be mates – – brothers.
Summer in New Zealand:
Adams noted he spent the summer working out and most recently held three children’s camps which saw 1,500 kids attend. Andre Roberson once again made the trip to New Zealand to help Adams out.
His home base was Wellington in New Zealand, where he noted it was cold because it’s winter time during the OKC summer. Still, Adams worked out on the beach focusing on all elements of his game. Earlier he was asked about his massive size and he told the OKC TV group he flips tractor tires and hammers.
Offseason work:
Adams also worked on functioning in tight spaces so he could improve his defense of pick and roll and scoring in tight spaces. Something he’s likely to have more opportunity to do this year given the talented additions to the squad. To that end, Adams was asked about his new teammates. Adams noted they are all cool, good lads. The interesting part of this exchange was how Adams determines the quality of a player. Handshakes and eye contact register high for the big Kiwi. Of which he notes all the new players were exceptional at performing.
New Guys:
Adding, the main thing is that they are good locker room guys first – which they definitely are. From there you just blend them in. Obviously they are high caliber players.
Butterflies are free:
On a lighter note, Adams was queried about his trip to the zoo, which he notes was awesome, outstanding. But, he found it weird they have a zoo for butterflies.
Expectations for this season:
More from Thunderous Intentions
- Stealing one player from every Southwest Division team for the OKC Thunder
- Should the OKC Thunder chase after a disgruntled hometown hero?
- 3 OKC Thunder players who can step up in Aleksej Pokusevski’s absence
- Aleksej Pokusevski sidelined approximately 6 weeks with ankle injury
- Damian Lillard does not fit with the OKC Thunder
As for the game one reporter inquired about the problems with floor spacing last season and how this season will be far different. Steven Adams pointed to how the floor will be opened up by the shooters, floor spacers. Moreover, he said the new personnel will allow him opportunity, particularly to function in the paint. Adams says with the caliber of players on hand the team will now be able to create great shots rather than good shots.
The final question by one reporter took about two minutes to ask. Steven Adams brought another laugh at the by saying so you want to know what I’ll contribute? After the laughter died down the center said he’ll do whatever the coach asks of him.
Although the big kiwi may have down played the talent additions it’s sure to open up his office (the paint), enable plenty of pick and roll action with Westbrook and witness a return to the progress he was expected to make from the 2015-16 success.
One thing is for sure, Steven Adams will never disappoint when hit comes to snagging a great sound bite!
Other Media Day Insights:
Russell Westbrook: Russell Westbrook hints extension is inevitable
Carmelo Anthony: Carmelo Anthony thrilled to join OKC Thunder and form new ‘Big 3’
Paul George: Paul George expects OKC Thunder to be top defense
Patrick Patterson: Patrick Patterson updates on knee, movie suggestions
Andre Roberson and Reserves: Media Day: The squad speaks
Sam Presti:Sam Presti talks Carmelo Anthony addition on Media Day 2017
Billy Donovan: Billy Donovan thoughts for 2017-18 season