Thursday’s OKC Thunder in the News continues the positive vibes by highlighting Wednesday’s praise from the national media.
It’s really a shame the Thunder had two days off after their performances the last two games. It’s not that they couldn’t use the extra time to break down film extensively, it’s that I really want to watch this team play every night. Watching them play defense is fun – you can say that about maybe two other teams in the NBA. Which leads us to today’s first column.
Is there a hierarchy in Oklahoma City?
No. That’s what makes it feel like this team could truly compete with the Warriors in a seven game series. As this Bleacher Report piece states, there are no egos in Oklahoma City. Yes it’s Russell Westbrook’s team, but he’s taken the least amount of shots of the Thunder’s All-Stars so far this season. Winning is the only state of mind in OKC; they’ve proven that in seven games.
"And if the Thunder do it right, they’ll be doing more than delivering first-round knockouts. They’ll be in the 12th round, in Oakland, against a team with just as much knockout power and just as much endurance."
The Raymond Felton bandwagon is gaining followers
The Thunder haven’t been great just because of their stars either. The new bench pieces – Patrick Patterson and Raymond Felton – are already fitting into the Oklahoma City style of play/culture seamlessly. Especially Felton. Jack Maloney from CBS Sports broke down just how the 13-year veteran has reinvented his game. I’ve said it a hundred times already but I’ll say it again: it’s so nice to have a competent backup point guard.
"“The biggest thing with that, man, it just shows what type of heart that I have,” Felton said."
Five takeaways from Tuesday night’s domination
So I’m doing a little shameless self-promotion. I think I deserve it after breaking down the Thunder’s fourth victory of the season with 2000+ words AND video breakdown. There was a lot to digest, from Andre Roberson’s scoring “explosion” to the brick wall known as the Oklahoma City defense. I’m getting ahead of myself. Just click those blue letters then tell me what you think once you’re done reading.
"Now onto five positive takeaways from the Thunder’s first consecutive victory of the season."
Thanks again for reading! Tomorrow is gameday for the Thunder – Boston is coming to town. Check Thunderous Intentions for our full pre/post-game analysis of the action.