Player Grades
Russ can’t seem to get his shots to fall. The Brodie is getting to any spot he wants but is just struggling to finish at the hoop. He affected the game in other areas however and was spectacular in the passing lanes with a game high six steals.
Thunder fans are waiting for Westbrook to come out of this funk and will have to wait another day but I guarantee he is working hard. A break out is coming.
Russell Westbrook said he doesn’t need to adjust anything on his missed shots at the rim. “Just have to make them, concentrate. It’s getting there.” pic.twitter.com/8TpHzZY5Wm
— Erik Horne (@ErikkHorne) December 16, 2018
Battling foul trouble most of the night, TFerg was sound in his 15 minutes of action. He has taken over Andre Roberson‘s role as a defensive stalwart posting just two points and two rebounds but was plus-10 when on court.
If PG hasn’t catapulted himself into the MVP conversation by now then analysts are sleeping on the 28 year-old. With Westbrook experiencing a tough stretch, George has taken over as the teams go-to scorer when the team needs a bucket.
Right from the outset, Grant was absolutely spectacular on both ends of the floor. As I alluded to earlier, his two blocks on Gortat set OKC’s tone for the game. Grant was active, pesky and contested every shot, making every scoring opportunity for LA a difficult one.
His fantastic defense lead to great offense as he showed hang time and strength to finish through contact. Grant’s improved 3-point shot is forcing teams to guard him on the perimeter and its providing opportunities for him to drive to the lane.
He was arguably OKC’s best player tonight and should be presented with the game ball for his performance.
The Big Kiwi had a solid game posting 16 points, five rebounds and two assists after a scorching 26 point effort against Denver last night. Adams continues to anchor OKC’s defense and make opposing bigs work for their buckets.