Each week Thunderous Intentions finds our favorite takes from OKC Thunder coach Billy Donovan and brings them to you.
October 18: Pre-Knicks game
The first Donvoan’s Dish this week comes from the pre-game talk prior to the Thunder’s matchup against the New York Knicks. Donovan had a couple of concerns. He knows the “Knicks are versatile and quick.” He was also a bit worried about the elapsed time between the last pre-season game and the season opener. As we know, he need not have worried.
Camp Talk: Coach Donovan - 10/18 https://t.co/YnCN84pnTa via @okcthunder
— Mervsports (@mervsports78) October 22, 2017
Donovan also talked about Carmelo Anthony having strong feelings towards New York. Billy D also grew up there, and played for the team for one season. In true Thunder style he said “(I) think our guys will support him. You know, he is with us now, with the Thunder.” He then went on to say “Our guys have been supportive of all the new guys who have come in.” This says a lot for the team culture of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Game Day vs Jazz
Prior to the Utah OKC Thunder game against the Utah Jazz, Donovan was asked by the media about the Big Three. It is understandable considering Paul George, Carmelo Anthony and Russell Westbrook combined for 71 points against the Knicks.
Game Day: Coach Donovan https://t.co/UGujflzxpV via @okcthunder
— Mervsports (@mervsports78) October 22, 2017
In Donovan style, he chose not to focus on the offense, but on the improved defense these players have helped the team develop. On George he said “Paul has been a great defender his entire career.” On Anthony he said “he sees things happening before they occur.” It is no wonder the defense has looked better already this season.
However, when asked about how the Westbrook triple double seemed effortless, Donovan responded with “he can do things in different ways to impact the game.” It is scary to think a triple double can appear effortless. Donovan, however, is more focused on the plays Westbrook makes which help the OKC Thunder win. We like those plays.
Postgame vs Jazz
Unfortunately the Jazz game did not work out as OKC Thunder fans and players wanted. Donovan was reasonably upbeat despite the loss. “I thought we had some decent looks but we didn’t shoot the ball well.” This attitude shows Donovan is realistic. He does not believe that adding two superstars means the wins will just come.
Postgame: Coach Donovan https://t.co/M2sTuXWu5I via @okcthunder
— Mervsports (@mervsports78) October 22, 2017
I think my favorite Donovan quote from the last week is “when you have a new team coming together it is different for everybody.” George has never played with teammates of the quality of Westbrook and Anthony. It is certainly a massive adjustment for him. Donovan understands the hard work which is required for success.
Fortunately, Westbrook, Anthony and George are true professionals. They are working really hard with each other to develop chemistry. No one will ever doubt the work ethic of Westbrook. Anthony and George are stars of the game – they have a similar work ethic to Westbrook. The OKC Thunder are going to be well served by their superstars.
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