When OKC Thunder big man Steven Adams dictates offense flourishes

Now in his sixth year, OKC Thunder big man Steven Adams is on track for a career season. With Russell Westbrook out with injury, Oklahoma City have presented Adams with keys to play-make out of the post and its unlocked a whole new dimension to his game.

When Steven Adams was selected 12th overall in 2013, the OKC Thunder received an athletic, defensive-minded big man with an underdeveloped offensive game. A bruiser by nature, Adams projected to be a nothing more than a rolling big capable of finishing anything within two-feet of the basket.

Fast forward to 2018 and the Thunder big man is realizing his potential – as a playmaker.

Entering his sixth season, the 25 year-old has improved every year since his arrival to the year and is on track to average a double-double. While his 14 points and 10.5 rebound average is nothing to sneeze at, Adams passing game is reaching new heights. Oklahoma City have empowered Adams to direct traffic from the post and its added whole new dimension to his game.

Before we delve into footage from the first 11 games of this season, It must be noted that Adams has shown flashes of offensive awareness and passing ability. Remember this play?

With Russell Westbrook missing time with various ailments, OKC have used Adams as the third playmaker and reaped the rewards. Lets take a look at improvements in his game and how he’s made plays with ball in hand.