Thunder in the News: Back-to-back better not be blasphemy

Paul George, OKC Thunder (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
Paul George, OKC Thunder (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
OKC Thunder
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – DECEMBER 31: Russell Westbrook #0 of the OKC Thunder looks on during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on December 31, 2017 at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

Playing the day after a second straight blowout loss doesn’t sound great on paper. But it very well could be the best remedy for the OKC Thunder.

Why is the Oklahoma City Thunder so inconsistent? That’s a question Thunder Nation has been trying to answer since the organization moved to the Midwest. It’s also one that seems to be even more relevant now more than ever. We were just talking about this team finally finding a groove, but two blowout losses to the Phoenix Suns and Damian Lillard-less Portland Trail Blazers have us back at square one three. Let’s see if we can come up with a solution before today’s Thunder in the News ends.

Royce Young tells it how it is

It’s obvious what’s transpired with this OKC Thunder team the past few games. But when Royce Young makes such a strong statement, you know it’s a big deal. Royce includes some great quotes from yesterday’s media availability – as always his post-game piece is a must-read for all of Thunder Nation.

"The message from the locker room Tuesday cited a lack of energy and effort, easily identifiable culprits, albeit ones that are hard to explain."

Russell Westbrook/Carmelo Anthony express their frustration

Two of Oklahoma City’s stars took very different approaches to last night’s loss. Russell Westbrook refused to speak; Carmelo Anthony refused to hold back. I personally like the messages both players sent. Westbrook was noticeably frustrated on the court, and it spilled over to his own performance. Carmelo was one of many who looked lethargic the past two games – his openness in admitting that is hopefully a sign that they’re going to talk it over on the plane ride to Minnesota. Which brings us to the last featured post of the day..

Opportunity to move past recent couple of games

Yes! The only way to get out of a funk like this is to keep playing more basketball! Sitting around and watching film won’t fix the Thunder’s biggest issue the past two games: energy. Turning around and playing tonight keeps this sour taste in their mouths, which in turn should light a fire under them once they hit the hardwood. If they simply play hard and follow Alex Mcewan’s keys to success, Oklahoma City should come out of Minnesota with a victory.

"The OKC Thunder’s effort has raised a few eyebrows multiple times this season, but their hustle has been constant. Pertaining to “hustle,” the same can be said for Minnesota."

That’s it for today’s issue of Thunder in the News! If you’re still craving more Oklahoma City content make sure to check out our home page. From trade targets to possible starting lineup changes, Thunderous Intentions has you covered with quality, insightful articles that will educate and entertain.