OKC Thunder week 5 power rankings – Continued progress and TI’s top 10

OKC Thunder:

Prior to week six the Thunder were the hottest NBA team in November and continued their winning ways in week five. OKC also briefly crept to the top of the defensive ladder. Although the Celtics reclaimed it don’t be surprised if OKC overtakes them again and hang on to it for the remainder of the season. Heady stuff for a squad missing their top defender (Andre Roberson).

As noted with the next team on the list a few commonalities exist with the Thunder and that squad beyond my obvious bias. One of those factors is the Thunder bench which hasn’t lived up to their potential — yet.

More than the win streak and defense the Thunder are displaying the true x-factor and growth of OKC lies in their bench. Once Schroder gets significant time playing with the youthful reserves I believe they can become a top five bench unit. Much like the Raptors bench mob held or built leads last season this unit offers the same possibilities.

Long range shooting will remain an issue – but only if the Thunder force shots. With their top end defense they can control the pace and their overall athleticism positions them well to dominate fast break scoring, points in the paint and if their youngsters (along with Paul George) can continue to improve organically from the perimeter the OKC Thunder appears to be positioned for one of the top three Western seeds.

As much as the Grizzlies are showcasing defensive prowess if I had to pick a team best suited to defend and stop the Warriors the OKC Thunder earn that nod.

Factors:

Offensive Rating: 13th
Defensive Rating:  2nd
Net Differential: 6th
Offensive field goal efficiency: 44.4 percent (22nd)
Opponent field goal efficiency: 44.9  percent (11th)
Win/Loss 3-0: Defeated Suns twice and Knicks
Record: 10-5
Injuries: Russell Westbrook out the entire week and Andre Roberson remained out recuperating.