OKC Thunder In the news: Brewer’s impact, BPI rank remains high
OKC Thunder In the news features articles highlighting Corey Brewer’s impact, the team’s Power Index still among leaders and a comfortable win for a change
It feels like eons since the OKC Thunder dispensed of a team quite so easily. In close to a 30 point win margin however, that is precisely what the team did last evening. Yes, the same Suns squad who pushed the Thunder to extremes just to capture a victory. That March 2 victory required a second half comeback and full utilization of the stars.
Thursday, the situation was entirely different. First of all the Thunder won every quarter. In another rarity four of the five starters sat the entire fourth quarter. The one issue I have with the win (well, that’s an understatement, because I’m still on the free Patrick Patterson train) is why it was necessary to play Paul George so many minutes in a blowout.
George started the final frame with the OKC Thunder holding a 21 point cushion (88-67). When PG13 left the game at 4:34 the Thunder held a 25 point cushion (101-76).
The question is why play Paul George was on the court at all. With so many stars suffering season ending injuries this season why risk it? And, for what, an extra four point cushion? Seriously, Billy Donovan continues to make head scratching decisions with his rotation – just add this to the list.
As for the game, Tony Heim who serves up the post game roundup and player grades in his inimitable style.
Brewer’s Fit:
On the other hand, Donovan is sure to get plenty of accolades for his decision to insert Corey Brewer into the starting rotation. Brewer replaced Donovan’s small forward du jour Josh Huestis and the initial test was a success. As ESPN scribe Royce Young points out though, this was the Suns and just one game.
"Brewer isn’t Roberson, and again, it’s one game, and again, against the Suns. But he does restore some normalcy to what the Thunder want to do on both ends of the floor. He fits systematically, playing a similar role to Roberson. There was a clear comfort and chemistry for Russell Westbrook, Carmelo Anthony, Paul George and Steven Adams with Roberson."
Still, 17 points, 4 rebounds, an assist, steal and connecting on two of four perimeter shots with a plus 26 differential was an impressive debut in this role. The clear benefit is the wing man’s energy. Westbrook thrives off energy. The other two-thirds of the OK3 sure could benefit from a spark to help them particularly on defense.
With 15 games remaining the trick will be to ascend the playoff ladder and build momentum heading into the postseason. A major test faces OKC in their next contest as they face the Spurs; another team mired in the playoff seeding battle.
Booker commits flagrant on Brewer:
Corey Brewer took a shot in the game from rising star Devin Booker which led to a flagrant foul.
Promise for OKC Thunder based on BPI ranking:
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Approximately every two weeks ESPN updates the BPI (Basketball Power Index) to show where the 30 teams rank.
For Thunder fans who are worried about the team and their recent struggles the current BPI offers optimistic news.
In the current rankings although the Thunder dropped they remain high on the list ranking sixth. Therein lies the rub, regardless of this squads refusal to take the easy route, to adapt earlier or respond to adversity more expeditiously the fact remains this team was built for the playoffs.
Moving Forward:
What we can expect is Westbrook to play every set like his life depended on it.
As for Paul George it behooves him to reach the playoffs, perform well and help OKC make a deep run.
Failure to do so would mean the spotlight could shift away from Donovon, Presti, Westbrook and Anthony onto him.
After all, George has been the one protected party throughout the season.
Partially because the team wants to retain him beyond this season. But, at some point that narrative could change. But, that’s a story for another day.
For the moment the team is on a high from winning. It appears Brewer is a viable fit in the starting rotation. And, each of the OK3 have individual reasons to do well in the final 15 games.
So, Thunder Nation let’s focus on those positives and keep thinking the good thoughts.
That wraps up in the news for March 9th. Enjoy the rest of your weekend and be sure to make Thunderous Intentions a daily stop.