OKC Thunder get their first preseason victory courtesy of the New Orleans Pelicans featuring the Big 3’s debut.
The energy in the Chesapeake Energy Arena during the introductions of the OKC Thunder was palpable – even over the net. Since the trades to acquire Paul George and Carmelo Anthony Thunder Nation waited anxiously for this moment. That is – – to see Russell Westbrook play with his new running mates.
Although Westbrook played limited minutes and there was discernible rust in his game there were still glimpses of what’s to come.
Notably, early in the contest a fast break spearheaded by Westbrook broke off with George streaking down the wing. As Russ threw up the lob to George the crowd was wildly screaming their approval. The result was a missed basket — but the signs of what is yet to come had been delivered loud and clear.
In yet another pivotal takeaway, the Pelicans collapsed on to Westbrook as he shuffled off the pass to Roberson who threw out a dart to the perimeter where Melo lay in wait. Consequently, Anthony’s shot slid through the net like a hot knife cutting through butter.
Suffice to say, it’s a very limited sample size, but there is more than enough reason for optimism. By the end of the first quarter the shot distribution everyone was so worried about read like this:
Carmelo Anthony: 2 of 4 for 5 points
Paul George: 2 of 5 for 8 points
Russell Westbrook: 3 of 5 for 9 points
Totals: 7 of 12 for 22 points
Hmm, that looks like pretty even shot distribution to me. Moreover with Donovan choosing to keep at least one of the trio on court with the reserves it’s easy to see how additional shots will be generated in those lineup iterations
I won’t get into a quarter by quarter breakdown, however the game was over in the first quarter. Yes, New Orleans made runs but even with Westbrook shut down after 10 minutes, Anthony at the half and George early in the third the Thunder looked and played like the superior team.
In terms of the OKC Thunder defense one number highlights how well they are performing on that end of the court. To wit, the Pelicans scored 46 points versus the Bulls in the first quarter Tuesday. Tonight the Pelicans had 44 at the half!