Five takeaways from the Thunder’s first win of the 2018 Playoffs

1. ‘Playoff P’ is the real deal

Did you really think I was going to forget about Playoff Paul George? Playoff P was electric on Sunday, finishing with 36 points on 11-20 shooting. He hit 8 of his 11 three-point attempts and both of his free throws, all while playing solid defense. It was truly a spectacle, one that reaffirmed why Sam Presti went all in to acquire PG.

More from Thunderous Intentions

• Stealing one player from every Southwest Division team for the OKC Thunder
• Should the OKC Thunder chase after a disgruntled hometown hero?
• 3 OKC Thunder players who can step up in Aleksej Pokusevski’s absence
• Aleksej Pokusevski sidelined approximately 6 weeks with ankle injury
• Damian Lillard does not fit with the OKC Thunder

Now the question turns to whether he can consistently bring this edge the rest of the Playoffs. He likely won’t shooting 72% from deep again, but if he can continue to play like a true first option this team becomes that much scarier. Utah had/has no answer for George – Joe Ingles won’t be able to get the job done and Donovan Mitchell is too young.

My only ‘problem’ actually stems from Westbrook. When George is feeling it there’s no reason for Russ to still take five more shots. Playoff P was obviously in a fantastic rhythm, and it’s Russ’ job to recognize that. If they can work that out and ensure George is THE primary offensive option, OKC will be better off.

I don’t want to get ahead of myself as this was only one game, but PG’s performance showcased why the Thunder have a legitimate chance to upset Houston. The offensive firepower is obviously there, but Oklahoma City has to bring that potential every night. They have the talent to beat this Utah team in 4 or 5 games – they really do. But will they?

If the answer is yes than there might be a third team out West who could crash the Western Conference Finals.