Thunder In the News: Donovan’s perplexing rotation choices, Uncle Steven

The final OKC Thunder in the News of 2017 offers up more questions on Donovan’s perplexing rotation choices, and a peek at Uncle Steven.

As a child I remember a male relative saying to me “this is the last time you’ll get to eat this year, so you better make it a good meal.” Of course I had no idea he was trying to be funny and burst into tears not understanding the innuendo of the calendar changing. Well, as the calendar year comes to a close, let’s hope the OKC Thunder can take stock to finish the season with their best effort and put behind all the negatives of 2017 and carry over the positives into 2018.

A good start would be for Billy Donovan to stop playing Russian Roulette with his rotational choices. Perhaps there is a mandate to feature one or both of Alex Abrines and Josh Huestis as trade bait, but it feels safe to say the start of the Bucks game should’ve isolated which player of those two warrants the first nod.

Billy Donovan rotations continue to raise questions:

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• Damian Lillard does not fit with the OKC Thunder

It’s common knowledge for Thunder Nation on how much Billy Donovan likes to tinker with his rotations. It was felt coming into this season there would be less manipulation given the need to work so many new players into the system. As the OKC Thunder struggled early offensively Donovan’s continued lineup changes seemed to be the head coach searching for answers.

But, with the OKC3 struggling to develop chemistry Donovan’s ongoing shifts seemingly was adding to the problems. Outside the OK3 the rest of the roster would be best served by consistency. Specifically, players are desirous of routine.

Knowing how many minutes to count on often produces the best results. It allows players to mentally  prepare for games. Players can relax, knowing when they can count on entering and how many minutes they’ll get. This is true especially for younger players who aren’t used to adjusting to constantly changing playing time or roles.

Patterson in the Donovan dog house?

Recently Donovan seemed to be leaning toward Josh Huestis as an early entry off the bench. So, when he started Alex Abrines against the Bucks it was more than a little puzzling. Sure, the Bucks have issues defending the perimeter. That said, the length of the Bucks and their starting rotation talent was perfectly designed for either a Huestis matchup or heaven forbid the unleashing of Patrick Paterson who can’t seem to get in Donovan’s good graces.

The Bucks game was tailor made to start Patterson given his recent playoff experience and knowledge of the Bucks. This would have allowed Donovan to move Carmelo Anthony back to his preferred small forward position and give the Thunder more length in matching up with the Bucks. Instead, Donovan went with Abrines and as Brett Dawson of NewsOK points out the results were less than spectacular.

"With Paul George sidelined by left knee soreness, the Thunder started Alex Abrines against Milwaukee, but against the Bucks’ length and athleticism, Abrines struggled defensively.The Bucks outscored Oklahoma City by 24 points in Abrines’ 10 first-quarter minutes, and though Milwaukee’s early dominance didn’t come down entirely to Abrines’ defense, the Bucks had mismatches when he was on the floor."

Steven Adams Niece supportings her Uncle and his team:

OKC Thunder big man Steven Adams is one of 18 children including sister Valerie. Arguably, Valerie is the more celebrated athlete of the family. Adams’ sister is titled Dame Valerie Kasanita Adams. She is known for her shot putting exploits. Valerie is a four-time World Champion, two-time Olympic champion among many of her achievements.

Her most recent prize however is daughter Kimoana Josephine.  As per the tweet below the adorable Niece of Uncle Steven is not only a big fan of his, but also his team.

That wraps up OKC Thunder in the news for December 31st.  For those staying home tonight get ready for the game day with Wil Harrington’s stellar preview. And, for those planning a night out, have fun and be safe as you bring in the New Year.

Next: 3 specific games that turned OKC Thunder season around

Thunderous Intentions wishes you all a Happy New Year. The TI team is excited to share in the OKC Thunder 2018 efforts as the team prepares to position themselves for a deep playoff run.

See you all back here next year.