OKC Thunder Player Grades: Paul George scorches Heat as team wins 7th in row

OKC Thunder Best Reserve

Talk about an offensive explosion — Dennis Schroder was so hot in the second quarter his shots weren’t even touching the net. I give the young German flack when he doesn’t pass the ball enough but when you’re rolling like he was you keep on shooting. He exited the half with 22 points on nine of 10 from the field and four of five from deep.

More impressively, he didn’t force his game in the second half collecting only six additional points but kept his efficiency with a final field goal effort of 11 of 13. Although he didn’t register an assist he was often involved in the hockey assist and was utilized as a diversion to open up other shooters.

When he plays like this especially alongside Westbrook and George it’s easy to see how his presence with the two stars can cause opponent’s nightmares.

Honorable mention to Nerlens Noel who continues to produce for the Thunder and was instrumental in keeping the lead. As announcer,s Michael Cage and Chris Fisher mentioned the person keeping the box score must’ve had their eyes closed because Noel had at least four blocks just in the first half although he was only credited with three total on the night.

Best Opponent

Hat tip to my fellow Canadian who was one of the bright spots for the Heat offense which was stuck in the mud for most of the evening. He led his team in scoring with 21 points and made life difficult for Grant and Adams who had to race out to the perimeter to try to block his efforts.

On the night he was a highly efficient 8 of 12 from the field connecting on 4 of his 6 triple attempts. He also chipped in with 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and a block.