Searching for their first win of the 2018-19 season the OKC Thunder face a tough opponent in the Boston Celtics who are also dealing with offensive malaise.
If I told you the OKC Thunder and Boston Celtics would struggle to start the season you would likely be surprised. Still, given each squad had returning injured players as well as the need to incorporate (or re-integrate in Boston’s case) players into their offensive system it might be understandable.
However, the fact these two squads tip off this evening with the worst offenses in the NBA is shocking. Dive deeper into the teams and there is another commonality the teams share regarding their offensive doldrums. Both are trying to play with an increased tempo (pace) and both are taking far too many perimeter shots.
In the Celtics loss to the Orlando Magic they jacked up 40 treys connecting on just 22.5 percent. Likewise, the Thunder threw up 39 perimeter attempts versus the Sacramento Kings connecting on a meager 23.1 percent. Factor in both teams’ stars were the ones leading the way. In Boston’s case 15 of the triple attempts came from Kyrie Irving (2-8) and Al Horford (1-7). For the Thunder 15 treys came from Russell Westbrook (1-6) and Paul George (3-9).
However, one of the key differences between these clubs is Boston have maintained their defensive prowess ranking first in the NBA. Meanwhile the Thunder despite not having Andre Roberson available were expected to be among league leaders but rank 19th (110.5). Much of this is tied to the Kings loss where the Thunder allowed 131 points. In the vacuum of three games obviously these stats can change swiftly, but they can’t be ignored. OKC can’t afford to show up and play lack luster tonight or they’ll remain win-less.
With that, let’s dive into the keys capturing their first victory this season.