OKC Thunder claim 10th spot in latest Bleacher Report NBA power rankings

Four consecutive wins catapulted the OKC Thunder into the latest top 10 Bleacher Report power rankings.

When it rains, it pours. And the OKC Thunder have certainly been hitting shots lately, despite struggling from behind the arc throughout the season. The added offense has led the five consecutive wins, pushing them into the top-10 of Bleacher Report’s latest power rankings.

With Paul George in MVP form and Terrance Ferguson on fire, the Thunder are as good as they’ve ever been in the post-Durant era. And Bleacher Report took notice. Still, it feels like they’ve yet to tap their fullest potential and surpass some teams that are ranked higher in BR’s list.

First and foremost, I think we all can agree the offense has to stay hot in order for OKC to be true contenders. We all know the Thunder’s identity is defense, but until recently, it has come with the expense of offense. Allowing the defense to sag and driving the lane each and every possession is no way to win long term. Some of the team’s struggles earlier in the season confirm that, as we were begging open shots to fall.

George has undoubtedly led the way on both ends with the MVP award in sight, but Ferguson’s shooting has been especially helpful. Add that to Jerami Grant and Patrick Patterson hitting more from the corner, and we have what we’re seeing now – a well-rounded team capable of beating anyone. And by the way, just because Russell Westbrook isn’t shooting particularly well, doesn’t mean he’s hurting the offense. He’s still averaging a 21 points a game, while distributing more.

Beyond the shooting, depth has been key for the Thunder. We all got a taste of what life is like without Nerlens Noel when we lost two of three in his absence this past month. And having a one-two punch in Furguson and Hamidou Diallo has been invaluable during Andre Roberson’s recovery. The “next man up” mentality has led unselfish basketball and open looks, which the team is beginning to make in bunches.

Between staying hot offensively and continuing the stifling defense, Oklahoma City should garner more respect around the league. Leapfrogging the Pacers at No. 9 in Bleacher Report’s power rankings shouldn’t be a problem after the injury to Victor Oladipo. Utah at No. 7 is another opponent the Thunder are capable of beating, and they’ve already beaten the 76ers (No. 5) in their first match up with them this season.

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Regardless of an opinionated power ranking like Bleacher Report’s, there’s a fairly clear-cut line between contenders and pretenders.

Oklahoma City has appeared to be on both ends of the spectrum depending on which night you look at, but this current hot streak is the type of trend that will put the Thunder back in the conversation for title contenders.

Consistency is the key heading into the second half of the season.

If the Thunder find a way to make open shots, they’re going to be a tough out in the playoffs.