Thunder in the News, just like the OKC Thunder, is enjoying a much needed two-day respite.
Although the Thunder have played solid basketball the last two games, this two-day break was needed. Fred Katz reported that Oklahoma City hasn’t had an official practice in over a week now. Steven Adams and Carmelo Anthony are battling minor injuries. This is a perfect time for the Thunder to comb through film to figure out what’s been different in the last two games (besides Paul George’s explosion). It’s also a great time for non-basketball activities…
Paul George, Carmelo already investing in OKC community
You love seeing the Thunder’s two newest stars already giving back to Oklahoma City. Carmelo Anthony has already partnered with OKC’s Feed the Children chapter while Paul George was busy yesterday taking kids out fishing. The Thunder and Oklahoma City have a special bond, one that few teams in the NBA can match. The fact Melo and PG are already ingraining themselves in the community tells a lot about how they feel with their new team/town.
"On Monday he announced the launch of his foundation’s outdoor initiative in cooperation with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation."
Enes Kanter shows why Oklahoma City will always love him
While the newest Thunder players were busy making new fans in OKC, Enes Kanter was showing the entire world why he and Oklahoma City have such a special bond. Kanter stood up to LeBron after his comments about Dennis Smith Jr. before the game, gave him more lip during the game then caused more controversy with his post-game comments. He stood up for his teammates even though he’s been with the Knicks for less than two months. That type of dedication to his “family” is why Thunder Nation will always have his back.
"“I’ll die for my teammates. Whatever happens, I got my teammates’ back because I see this team, this organization, like my family. Nobody is going to mess with it.”"
Billy Donovan isn’t the Thunder’s problem
I have to admit, I’m torn up that Austin Sternlicht beat me to writing this piece. But he did such a good job that it’s probably for the best. Thunder Nation is currently writing off Billy D as a good NBA coach because of OKC’s rough start. Austin gives the definitive case why we are over-reacting. In fact, we should be thankful that the Thunder have such a versatile coach.
"As it naturally goes, fans are looking for something, or someone to blame for the rugged start. A good portion of the blame has gone to head coach Billy Donovan."
That’s it for today’s issue of Thunder in the News. Head over to our main page for more Oklahoma City content, including post-game analysis, daily features from our awesome staff and much, much more.