Bill Simmons argument OKC Thunder could be West’s x-factor merits consideration

The real question (as always) will be what the bench can produce. Again, in its current state, the reserve unit will consist of numerous returning players like Dennis Schroder, Nerlens Noel, Patrick Patterson and a host of youngsters like Hamidou Diallo, Deonte Burton, and Abel Nader.

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This new player on the bench is Mike Muscala whom Presti hoped could create space on the court and provide versatile offense and rebounding at the forward position.

The elephant in the room is Andre Roberson. Where is he in terms of his injury? And more importantly, if he’s 100 percent recovered has he also improved offensively?

Having not played in over a year and a half Roberson had ample time to focus on improving his shooting efficiency. If ARob returns with even a slight improvement at the line and via his range, he becomes a very intriguing asset for the Thunder.

Outside of these players, there is the rookie Darius Bazley who showed glimpses of why Sam Presti was keen to add him to the roster. Plus the two-way contracted players Luguentz Dort and potentially Donte Grantham who delivered a strong Summer League showing.

Whether it’s fools gold I’m buying into or simply a reason to keep that glass leaning to the half-full side of the equation at least there is an argument on the table to consider other than outright tanking.

What are your thoughts? Do you envision any way for the Thunder to compete for a postseason berth? Or is it a given this squad not only will be lottery bound but in fact should be trying to tank? Let us know in the comments section.