Thunder in the News: Apparently afraid of to reach .500

The failure to reach .500 has become a rather strange trend for the OKC Thunder.

Since falling under .500 on November 17th, the Oklahoma City Thunder have had four opportunities to even their record. They’ve lost all four of those games by a combined 26 points, including last night’s 13-point demolition at the hands of the Charlotte Hornets. Their inability to improve since the beginning of the season is startling – that’s what we’re discussing today.

Thunder stars have to start searching for answers

We got three very distinct quotes from the Thunder’s three stars last night. Russell Westbrook emphasized how important it is for the team to play a consistent style. Paul George discussed how they have to remain optimistic yet alarmed. Carmelo Anthony said nothing:

"It made for a quiet, frustrated Oklahoma City Thunder locker room, with Carmelo Anthony leaving before it opened up to reporters for postgame availability."

Oklahoma City’s struggles go beyond team chemistry – their stars simply aren’t performing up to their capability. The responses to this season-long struggle is indicative of how the players are going to respond moving forward: with a sense of urgency.

Panic button initiated?

While George doesn’t believe the Thunder should hit the panic button just yet, others are starting to hover around the switch. Levi Pitts from The 94 Feet Report gives his reasoning on why Oklahoma City should start panicking. His analysis is spot-on – OKC is struggling because their stars are under-performing and Billy Donovan is failing to initiate any change.

Want to know the sole reason why I’m not entering full-fledged panic mode? My guy Bobby Marks told me to hold off until Christmas.

"Yeah, probably."

Billy Donovan has to take part of the blame

This is a take we haven’t heard much from the local Thunder media. I think a lot of that has to do with the thoughtful, intelligent answers Billy Donovan gives when he speaks publicly. Nobody is questioning whether or not Donovan understands the game. Our gripe comes from his inability to take control of what should be his team. The best coaches in every sport do not allow their players to run the show; until Billy D steps up OKC’s fortunes aren’t going to change anytime soon.

Related Story: Donovan's rotations are a problem for the Thunder

"Meshing newcomers with holdovers, asking stars to play outside their long-established comfort zones, motivating players to either sacrifice or try new things, that’s a textbook definition of coaching."

That’s it for today’s issue of Thunder in the News! We’ll be back tomorrow to preview Paul George’s return to Indiana, as well as any other newsy items related to your favorite team. While you’re here, make sure you check Thunderous Intentions for all of our great content.