Thunder in the News: A much-needed day in the practice gym
By Tony Heim
Thunder in the news is feeling slightly more optimistic today. It’s no surprise that comes at a time when we haven’t seen the OKC Thunder play in three days.
Are you enjoying this extended break as much as I am? Today marks the final day of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s three-day
vacation
break to recoup from a disappointing weekend. This couldn’t have come at a better time. The Thunder got a day off on Sunday but got to work on Monday, and that’s where we begin today’s Thunder in the News.
Nick Gallo’s practice report
Gallo’s contracted by the team so he’s obviously going to keep it positive. That’s why defense and Terrance Ferguson dominated the discussion:
"It’s rare that players can retain information so well through verbal and auditory means. Ferguson, however, has that gift."
Going into Saturday’s matchup against the Mavericks I thought Alex Abrines was going to have a big game. Instead Ferguson got Abrines’ minutes for the night and played well. Ferguson looked more confident in his jump shot, a product of him playing a game with the OKC Blue. The Thunder just need to give this kid minutes even if that means playing him in the G-League.
Thunder are highest-paid team in the world
Imagine that – Oklahoma City’s professional athletes make more money on average than any other team in the world. That’s the case according to Business Insider’s recent report. Clay Bennett deserves recognition for his sacrifice to make this team relevant, but it’s a scary thought to think he’s going to have to pay even more money next year to keep the roster.
"The Oklahoma City Thunder are the new highest-paid sports team in the world, with players making an average of $9.3 million during the 2017-18 season."
Billy D gets a moment in the spotlight
David Fitzdale’s firing yesterday caused shockwaves in the NBA community. Naturally that led Thunder Nation to ponder a Fitzdale addition. Ironically I wrote this piece about Billy Donovan before the news broke, but I think it still stand true. Firing Donovan is too reactionary for a coach that hasn’t had roster stability since taking over. We’ve got to give him until at least Christmas – if you don’t agree with me then I’ll let you read the piece for my full argument.
"If not we’re going to watch the same reoccurring problems for 63 more games. Your move Billy D."
That’s it for today’s issue of Thunder in the News. If you want/need more Thunder content jump over to our home page for features, post-game analysis and Jeremy Lambert (Jeremy has his own genre).
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