OKC Big 3 debut – clip Pelicans 102-91, Player Grades
Closing thoughts:
The Big 3 still need to find a true flow and rhythm, but there were obvious indications that process will be easier than the critics predictions. Defensively this squad could be scary good. Offensively there are still kinks to work out, but the transition potential is there. Let’s not forget Patrick Patterson and Alex Abrines (likely to be the sixth and seventh players in the rotation) have yet to play a minute with the squad.
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Although the OKC Thunder have lead the league in rebounding they’ll need to rebound by committee this season. Facing the likes of Davis and Cousins it was encouraging the team won the battle of the glass 46-43. Especially notable was the Thunder held the Pelicans to 39 percent from the field while shooting a robust 48.6 percent. Other highlights included a 22 to 15 edge in assists and points in the paint differential of 42 to 38.
As per usual the Thunder are a squad who cough up the ball a ton, although much of that can be attributed to the newness and introduction of new players.
There are areas of concern outside the normal timing to develop chemistry. Specifically, the backup bigs (even when Patterson returns) are lacking. Sam Presti has some decisions to make as the squad sure could use a veteran big. Whether that translates into Kyle Singler being waived and the team using the stretch provision or another trade I’m not sure, but clearly that is the squad’s biggest weakness.
Overall the positives far outweighed the negatives and while it’s just the second game of the preseason there is good reason to believe this team will be among the very best in the Association. Still, exercise some patience as this is a work in progress and there are bound to be ebbs and flows as the chemistry is developed.
For the full box score visit ESPN link here.
Be sure to check back tomorrow for Tony Heim’s infamous 5 takeaways. Next up for the OKC Thunder they’ll face the Australian team – Melbourne United in a matinee match on Sunday.