OKC Thunder statement win offers ample reason to give thanks – key takeaways
A new ending to the story?
The overwhelming truth is there is no team with the top tier talent to match Golden State. Despite the oust, there were the obvious missing cornerstones. Draymond Green the Warriors best defender was inactive and as outlined, their most important player (Curry) is still out. Yet, expecting the Dubs not to be there late in the playoffs would be naive.
That said, OKC was also missing their top defender (Andre Roberson) and their best player is just recently back from injury.
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What I do know, is despite taking several hits to the chin tonight the Thunder feel like the deeper squad in terms of who they can rely on from their bench. They also feel like the more cohesive team.
This was most evident in the immediate aftermath of Diallo’s injury and showcased Russell Westbrook for the trait he seldom gets recognized for – his growth as a leader.
Go back and watch what happened right afterward. While the Warriors appeared stunned by the injury, Westbrook huddled his five together, delivered some sage words of wisdom and the Thunder rose to finish the job. For some reason I picture Russ citing the equivalent of win one for the Gipper in the form of let’s do this for Hami.
If Curry is the main cog who makes the Warriors float like Ali’s butterfly, Westbrook is his counterpart who makes his Thunder sting like the bee.
Still, a healthy Curry is the key not just in terms of his on court effect, but in cementing the identity of the team. His return will resolve much. And, we’ll await the spring and pray for that shot at a Game 7 with hopes of a different outcome this time.
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I don’t know if the Thunder can rewrite the ending – – but, the team who now resides atop the NBA as the best defensive squad is one I’m willing to take my chances on – particularly with a leader like Westbrook at the helm!