Thunderous Intentions
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OKC Thunder In the news – Anthony’s homecoming spoiled

By Tamberlyn Richardson

NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 16: Carmelo Anthony
NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 16: Carmelo Anthony /
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OKC Thunder In the news for December 17 looks back upon Carmelo Anthony’s return to the Mecca and the subsequent loss.

There was a video montage tribute and a standing ovation, but the welcome ended there as the Knicks took down the OKC Thunder in Carmelo Anthony’s return.

Entering the match last night there was optimism for the OKC Thunder who were winners in six of their past eight games. Bolstering the mood was the fact the Knicks top two players Tim Hardaway Jr. and Kristaps Porzingis would not dress.

Unfortunately the shot Steven Adams took in the first overtime period in Philly resulted in the Kiwi needing to also sit out as he undergoes the concussion protocol program.

Leading up the game during the week Carmelo Anthony made a few comments about being excited for his return to New York CIty.

Although the last season Anthony was in New York was firmly embroiled in the cat and mouse game with Phil Jackson it was clear Melo always loved his hometown.

His last few seasons were a negative, but Anthony did take the Knicks to the playoffs and after years of not making the postseason Knicks fans will remember Melo for that.  The feelings are mutual as Anthony was featured in several quotes leading up to tipoff.

Ogden says perfect partner for Porzingis is Paul George:

Prior to the game Maxwell Ogden of Knicks Daily offered his opinion in TIP3 and served up some hot takes. Ogden provides some great insight on how Enes Kanter and Doug McDermott are fitting in with their new squad.

Additionally, he answered questions on New York Melo, the unicorn Kristaps Porzingis, rookie Frank Ntilikina and much more. One answer was very intriguing as Ogden says the perfect pairing partner for Porzingis is Paul George.

"The New York Knicks have made the playoffs just four times over the past 16 seasons. Three of those seasons were with Carmelo Anthony on the roster, and two were with Anthony as the clear and unquestioned No. 1 player in New York (respect is due to Amar’e Stoudemire for 2010-11).Knowing that to be true, it stands to reason that Anthony should be held in the esteem as one of the greatest players in Knicks history."

Melo Welcomed Warmly by MSG:

Unlike Paul George’s return to Indy the Knicks fan base welcomed Anthony via applause during his introduction. MSG played a pregame video montage and the crowd gave him a standing ovation.

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Thunder stuck in quicksand:

The OKC Thunder plane had to be de-iced prior to leaving Philly. This further delayed OKC’s departure after already being behind due to the three overtime frames.

Watching the game it was clear OKC were tired. The first hint came via the pace of the game Instead of their usual pace or pushing the ball the ball was walked up the court.

Several of the players had no lift in their shots and mental mistakes were made which is also a clear sign of fatigue.

There was one play by Westbrook which showed no hints of weariness. That of course was Westbrook’s power dunk. Knicks fans are appreciative of quality and responded with vocal praise.

In spite of the team being tired there was still an opportunity to steal this game. In a continuing trend though, Billy Donovan made more head scratching rotational choices.

National and social media were dialed into the night with many taking delight in the Knicks win.

https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/942230724295344128

To catch TI’s take check out Sinjin Snope’s post game grades. After playing three games in four nights OKC won’t get much time off as they prepare to host the Nuggets Monday nght.

That wraps up in the news for December 17.  Make sure to check in with Thunderous Intentions daily as our talented team of scribes keeps you up to date and your favorite team and players.

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