Five takeaways from the Thunder’s first preseason win

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK- OCTOBER 6: Russell Westbrook #0 helps up Paul George #13 of the OKC Thunder during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans during a preseason game on October 6, 2017 at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Layne Murdoch/NBAE via Getty Images)

Preseason or not, there’s nothing better than discussing an OKC Thunder win.

Tonight was a great night for Thunder Nation. Russell Westbrook made his first appearance on the court since signing his record breaking extension, the OK3 got their first opportunity to play with each other and Oklahoma City came out with a win.

There was a lot to like about tonight’s performance. For one, Steven Adams had another great outing. The Big Kiwi scored 8 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 20 minutes of action. Reminder: his assignments were Demarcus Cousins and Anthony Davis. Adams effected the game on both ends of the court – neither Cousins or Davis shot over 50% on the night while Adams made all four of his attempts.

I’m loving what I’m seeing from Steven Adams this preseason. He’s playing with the same fire that made him a fan favorite early on, but he’s doing it with a much better grasp of the game. The 24-year old truly looks like the top-50 NBA player we’ve been expecting. And this is coming from somebody who was disappointed in Steven last season.

Want to know why I’m so excited? Earlier in the summer I wrote about how Adams is the key to the Thunder’s success this season. Big Steve has caught my eye in two games, so much so I’d bet he’s in the discussion for Most Improved at the end of the season.

I went off on a tangent – you’re welcome for the freebie. If you’re so inclined, I have five more takeaways from tonight’s win for you to peruse. Hope you enjoy.