OKC Thunder: Key Takeaways offer silver lining in loss to Nuggets

Paul George, OKC Thunder (Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images)
Paul George, OKC Thunder (Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Nikola Jokic, Steven Adams, OKC Thunder (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images) /

What can be said about Steven Adams that hasn’t been said already? He’s OKC’s defensive anchor and enforcer in the middle. His grit, hustle, and bruising style of play are reminiscent of the old school big men of the NBA’s golden era. Adams has overachieved in every facet of a true center role and has exceeded all expectations for a 12th pick in the 2013 draft.

Adams has demonstrated his willingness to do the dirty work on a nightly basis to help get this team the win, and Tuesday night he showed glimpses of how dangerous he can be when he gets possessions in the post.

Showing off his soft touch around the rim, the New Zealand Aqua-man was giving the Joker fits over and over again in OKC’s bout against the Nuggets. Coach Donovan practically had me screaming at the television demanding that they keep feeding the big man inside.

From catching lobs to finding the open man, to even guarding perimeter players, Adams’ importance to this team jumps off of the screen. He is the adhesive that makes Oklahoma City one of the most frustrating defenses in the league.  Whenever he is more involved in the offense, good things are bound to follow.