3 takeaways from OKC Thunder 105-103 loss to Dallas

Russ must show greater understanding

If there is one thing we have learned from this season is that Russ is struggling with his shot. A perfect example of this is his last two performances where he scorched Phoenix for 40 points on 17-29 shooting then turned in a terrible nine-point game on 4-22 shooting against the Mavericks.

While Russ has done a tremendous job distributing the ball and impacting the game in other ways, he must do a better job picking his spots.

Westbrook’s mid-range woes continued as he made just two shots from his favored distance. His other two makes were on back to back lay-ups in the third quarter but aside from this, his attempts were well short of the mark.

So it begs the quest – why start firing from beyond the arc?

The Brodie shot 0-8 from the 3-point line on wide open looks. The issue isn’t necessarily with taking open perimeter shots, it’s understanding when he should and shouldn’t take these. An open shot for Russ isn’t equivalent to an open shot for PG13.

Westbrook needs to understand when he has it going and tonight was a classic example of his lack of awareness while in the midst of competition.

Westbrook must push the pace

With PG13 out two nights ago, Russ got himself going by attacking the paint, playing fast and getting to his favored spots. Westbrook opened the first quarter getting to the cup and dominating his opposing defenders on the block.

The fundamental difference between Westbrook’s successful games and his terrible shooting nights is the pace of play. With PG present, Russ’ pace slows and he struggles mightily when held in half-court settings. In order for the Brodie to be effective, he needs to find his shot early and often as his decision making increases 10-fold.

Expecting the Brodie to become an elite 3-point marksman at this point is a pipe dream. Fans should never persuade Westbrook to stop shooting from range but limiting his attempts is the step in the right direction.