Examining which players benefit most following formation of OKC Thunder Big 3

Steven Adams:

In the eyes of many, Steven Adams disappointed last season. After his breakout performances in the 2016 finals resulted in a 4-year-100M extension, many believed Adams would take the next step in his career. Despite setting career highs in points (11.3), rebounds (7.7), assists (1.1), steals (1.1) and free throw percentage (61), Adams struggled largely due to spacing issues.

Teams jammed the paint and the two-man game between Russ and Adams took a hit. Additionally, its hard to say if Adams has improved offensively because he barely got any touches in the post. Defensively, he was largely the same player he was in previous seasons. With the departure of Serge Ibaka, Adams was all alone to defend the paint, a job that was almost impossible to do.

Return of the Two-Man game:

The addition of Anthony and George will surely open up the floor, creating lanes for either Russ to attack the paint or provide alley-oop opportunities for Adams. Take a look at Adams riding the back of Miami Heat‘s Hassan Whiteside following an alley-oop from Westbrook.

In review of the replay, there were 6 guys within 5-feet of the hoop. With Melo and George opening the floor, it should look more like this:

Adams will get more of these types of alley-oops with Melo and PG13 in the game. The inter squad game showcased precisely that on Sunday as George repeatedly found Adams. Additionally, it will increase opportunities for dump-offs if either Russ, Melo or PG13 drive into the paint. So much attention will be focused on the big 3 that Adams will become the primary beneficiary. Expect Adams to have another career year statistically this coming season.