OKC Thunder In the news: Westbrook-less camp equals opportunity, peer nod, new kicks
OKC Thunder in the news focuses on Russell Westbrook with his absence affording camp opportunity, Thomas’ pays respect and new kicks release.
The current narrative is flooding with ample hot takes on how the OKC Thunder could suffer in Russell Westbrook’s absence. Therefore, with today’s ITN column I elected to focus on the glass sitting beside you – yeah the one which is half full.
On the menu today three Westbrook pieces including the release of another Why Not sneaker, his peer Isaiah Thomas paying him homage and a dive into advantages the OKC Thunder can gain in the Brodie’s absence.
With that – here’s your OKC Thunder in the news for September 14…
Westbrook new kicks – Why Not Zer0.1:
Although the OKC Thunder point guard won’t be throwing on these new kicks (at least for the next four weeks) it shouldn’t stop you from grabbing a pair. The newest in his collection is the Jordan Brand Why Not Zer0.1. The bright red shoe feels perfectly aligned to the superstar’s enigmatic and bold personality. And, let’s be honest – tell me you wouldn’t feel your swag wearing a pair of red kicks?
This is the latest of Westbrook’s sneaker releases this offseason. These Jordan Brand kicks are $115.00 U.S. For more on this new release check out the full description and all the pertinent data of where to get them via Sneaker News or visit the Nike link for all sneaker release dates.
"Representing Russell Westbrook’s unique flair both on and off the court, the Why Not Zer0.1 by Jordan Brand appears in a bold all-red colorway. Originally appearing as part of Westbrook’s China Tour this past summer, this new colorway is dipped heel to toe in a bold university red, with Westbrook’s crest located in the footbed. His signature mantra of “Why Not?”, which defines how he attacks both the net and life’s daily challenges, is patched just behind the tongue."
As Jordan Buckamneer highlighted on TI these are just one of the many new styles the Brodie has released this offseason. Click the link below for a review of the top 10 Westbrook and Paul George shoes of 2018.
Related: Top 10 Westbrook and George signature shoes of 2018
Isaiah Thomas ranks Westbrook (and himself?) among top 5 point guards:
More from Thunderous Intentions
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- 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
Confidence is key in sports. So much so that fans often witness players succumb to losing confidence via missed free throws (Andre Roberson) or field goals. Conversely, a player with an abundance of confidence can often over achieve their own talent and athleticism.
That said the latter can be dangerous, particularly when it borders on delusion. Case in point Isaiah Thomas ranked himself as a top five point guard. Before you click the link expecting to hear Hall of Famer and Detroit Piston point guard Isiah Thomas speaking, let me clarify it’s the Isaiah with two “a”s in his name who is still active in the league.
Even if we take into account a break through season in Boston, and consider the hip injury you’d be hard pressed to find anyone outside a Celtics fan who hasn’t seen Thomas play since he left bean town who would rank him as a top five point guard.
And, hey Boston fans are smart – they wouldn’t rank him there either. Even those worried Kyrie Irving (who was the core portion of the Thomas trade to Cleveland) will bolt next summer still wouldn’t jump on that bandwagon.
Given this, should OKC Thunder fans be alarmed Thomas ranks Russell Westbrook in the top five? Nah- the young height challenged PG also lists Steph Curry, Damian Lillard, himself and boots John Wall in favor of Kyrie Irving.
Regardless of whether you agree with the four “others” on Thomas list I guess you have to admire the tenacity (or audacity?) and confidence of the diminutive guard.
To catch the full interview of Thomas on Kevin Hart’s “Cold as Balls” show click here.
Don’t Worry – Be Happy:
Finally, while various podcasters, reporters and media personnel voiced offered their takes on Russ having a new procedure we’re not panicked here at T.I.
In fact, TI dove into three areas the OKC Thunder should focus on in Russ’ absence to garner benefits, knowledge and turn into advantages. ‘
"If you’ve ever heard the expression turning lemons into lemonade you understand the concept. Take a situation which may not be ideal and shift it into a positive. With news the OKC Thunder super star Russell Westbrook underwent arthroscopic knee surgery on Wednesday, September 12 it’s time for the Thunder to make lemonade."
In particular this is the perfect opportunity to integrate Schroder into the lineup and work on chemistry. Another huge opportunity exists for Paul George to take a greater leadership role and put his stamp on the team. PG is much more of a nuanced leader who would rather lead in a less vocal way. With Russ out this window affords the wing man time to bond and lead by example.
Next. Offseason report card – Grading every Sam Presti move. dark
That’s it for In the news today. Enjoy your Friday and see you back here tomorrow.