Thunder in the News: Yet another chance to hit .500
By Tony Heim
Thunder in the News is an OKC Thunder fan’s dream – a daily post dedicated to finding the best Oklahoma City content around the web.
Happy Monday Thunder Nation! Today marks yet another opportunity for Oklahoma City to move to .500 on the season and inch closer to Playoff position. The struggling Charlotte Hornets are the only thing standing in the way.
The Hornets have lost three in a row, including their last two to the Chicago Bulls and LA Lakers over the weekend. Oklahoma City, like virtually every team they’ve faced this season, is far more talented than Charlotte. But once again, the Thunder may be without one of their starters tonight.
OKC probably won’t be at full strength again
While it appears Paul George is good to go today, Andre Roberson’s status is in question according to Brett Dawson:
If Oklahoma City has to miss any of their starters they would pick Roberson, especially against Charlotte. Kemba Walker is the Hornets’ only big-time perimeter threat so Roberson’s defense is not mandatory so long as George is in the lineup. Alex Abrines will likely receive the start in Roberson’s place – it will be interesting to see how he’s used playing alongside George.
Celebrating Victor Oladipo’s rise in Indiana
I can’t speak for the rest of you, but I’m really happy to see Victor Oladipo breaking out in Indiana. Oladipo put up a career-high 47 yesterday as he led the Pacers to an overtime win over Denver. The former Thunder shooting guard is thrilled to be playing in the Hoosier state – it’s a shame people continue to bring up his past instead of praising his present self.
"“This is the most positive locker room I’ve ever been a part of, and it’s incredible. … We just lift each other up. These guys over here, man. It’s a special group. It’s a special team, man, and I’m just honored to be a part of it.”"
Welcoming a new writer to Thunderous Intentions
Our final piece of the day comes from TI’s newest staff writer, Wil Harrington. For his first piece, Wil wrote about Oklahoma City’s favorite New Zealander and how he’s evolved into the NBA’s most interesting man. Be thankful Steven Adams is here to stay.
"That magnificent ‘stache, backdropped by unkempt and animalistic scruff… It serves as a warning to opponents that “The Kiwi”, as he is affectionately dubbed, means business."
That’s it for Monday’s edition of Thunder in the News. Check back with us tonight for our post-game analysis of Charlotte’s visit. While you’re at it search through our full site for all of our great content from this season.