Game Preview: Surging OKC Thunder visit reeling Brooklyn Nets
By Alex Mcewen
Continue Sharing the Wealth
For years Thunder Nation has clamored for a more team-oriented attack, such as more ball and player movement. 22 games into the season the Thunder remain dead last in passes per game 240.1 to be exact. But, they are being more efficient with the passes they make.
In 16 of OKC’s 22 contests, they have had five or more players in double figures. As a comparison, last season through 22 games that number was six. The OKC Thunder are not an elite offensive team, hence they rely on a team-wide scoring approach rather than placing the onus on Russell Westbrook or Paul George as they have in the past.
The current system is working and arguably makes the Thunder more dangerous. Due to the fact opposing defenses must focus on OKC’s offense as a unit, rather than superstar individuals.
Super Second Rounders
Contrary to popular belief talent can be found in several different places. Many believe if a player is selected in the first round there is a higher chance they will have a successful professional career. However, in some incidences, second rounders can be equally impactful.
The Thunder and Nets offer a good example of the value second rounders provide. Among the 107 second round picks currently playing in the NBA Oklahoma City and Brooklyn have a combined seven players in the top-50 in scoring.
*Scoring only reflects second round picks
Slow Down D’Angelo Russell and Spencer Dinwiddie
During the Nets last five games Russell and Dinwiddie have been on an offensive binge, scoring 206 points combined. Equating to 23.2 points per game for Russell and 18.0 points per game for Dinwiddie.
The Nets starting backcourt will be the latest test for the top-ranked OKC Thunder defense. Among the eight teams currently qualified for the Western Conference playoffs, Oklahoma City’s backcourt defense is the second best, the order is as followed:
Points allowed to opposing starting backcourt
- Nuggets: 659 points or 28.7 points per game (ppg), in 23 games played.
- Thunder: 687 points or 31.2 ppg, in 22 games.
- Trail Blazers: 726 points or 31.6 ppg in 23 games.
- Warriors: 843 points or 33.7 ppg in 25 games.
- Memphis: 754 points or 34.3 ppg in 22 games.
- Dallas: 755 points or 36.0 ppg in 21 games.
- Clippers: 871 points or 37.9 ppg in 23 games.
- Lakers: 890 points or 38.7 ppg in 23 games.