OKC Thunder lose preseason opener, yet gain 5 valuable roster insights

Patrick Patterson continues to impress in subtle ways:

Patterson was effective again, but was only afforded four shot opportunities. Of his two shots from deep he hit one. While his offense wasn’t called upon Patterson was actively crashing the boards grabbing five rebounds.

This might seem like a minor detail, but Patterson is not known for his rebounding prowess averaging less than half that many last season (2.4). If 2Pat can maintain his shooting efficiency, defensive savvy and keep crashing the boards expect a much more productive second season in OKC.

OKC Thunder Reserve unit rises to challenge:

Adams, Schroder and Patterson all were given limited action in the third quarter with head coach Billy Donovan electing to go primarily with the bench the second half and all of the fourth.

Much like the starting trio displayed budding chemistry, so too did a bench unit comprised of Raymond Felton, Terrance Ferguson, Hamidou Diallo, Jerami Grant and Nerlens Noel. Facing three Pistons starters (Andre Drummond, Stanley Johnson and Reggie Bullock) this lineup more than held their own. But for a few missed bunnies and dunk by Noel this game could’ve had a different result.

Although this reserve unit were extremely functional, particularly on defense, the signs offensively could not be ignored. With a rookie (Diallo), sophomore (Ferguson) and a still integrating newbie (Noel) this OKC Thunder lineup played with energy and pace. After two seasons of leads constantly taking nose dives Donovan has to be encouraged by the potential of his reserve unit.

It’s impossible not to ponder this group featuring Dennis Schroder in Felton’s role and the potential of his added speed to this group. Furthermore, Billy D has a propensity for playing Paul George for stretches with the bench unit. His presence along with Schroder should also bolster the reserve lineups.

Given how well Adams is producing in the pick and role with Schroder imagine how Noel and Grant could do with a point guard who is more than happy to set up his teammates. Felton is a wily vet, capable of head manning the point, but prefers to call his own number. Moreover the prospect of that group destroying teams via defense and fast breaks should make Thunder Nation giddy.