OKC Thunder begin preseason versus an old nemesis – game day preview, Oct 3
The OKC Thunder tip off in their first preseason game of 2017 versus the Houston Rockets.
The last time these two teams were on the same court it marked the end of the OKC Thunder season. Never mind Russell Westbrook had just finished arguably the greatest individual season in NBA history. Forget the fact four of their five playoff games were decided by an average of four points. Even three of the four regular season matches were decided by a cumulative seven points. Further, while the Rockets finished seeded third to the Thunder’s sixth rank, the squads often saved their best efforts for each other. Obviously, the talent and depth of the Rockets out weighed the Thunder, hence the 4-1 playoff margin.
In spite of those battles, both squads enter tonight with vastly restructured rosters. Houston specifically underwent a massive roster shuffle with eight players exiting who contributed to the team last season. Most of those departed either as part of the block buster trade to acquire Chris Paul or were released to accommodate salary space for Paul and other free agent signings. Moreover, ownership has changed with Tilman Fertitta purchasing the team for $2.2 million.
NBA sources confirm Tilman Fertitta (@TilmanJFertitta) paying a record $2.2 billion to buy #Rockets franchise, @wojespn 1st reported price
— Mark Berman (@MarkBerman_) September 5, 2017
Old nemesis adds fuel to rivalry:
Chris Paul was the Rockets’ bright shiny penny Morey brought in this off season. The move was made with the intention of creating an even more dynamic D’Antoni offense. Consequently, Harden moves back to shooting guard, just one season after becoming a highly successful starting point guard.
The result today won’t count toward the final win-loss margin at season’s end. Yet, this opening preseason game could be an important hint of what’s to come in the Western Conference. Odds are neither coach will show their entire hand since these teams are expected to compete with the Spurs for the second seed in the West.
The teams won’t play in the regular season until Christmas Day for the first of their three meetings (March 6, April 7). By that time, presumably both will have made significant progress.
For now, let’s take a look at what today’s match holds in store for each squad.