OKC Thunder 119-104 win vs. Mavericks: Player grades reflect exciting first impressions

First, let’s state the obvious. There are key objectives to the preseason. In the case of the OKC Thunder, there is more than the typical amount to accomplish. New players outnumber returning players which offer its own set of issues like developing chemistry in a limited timeframe and figuring out which players work best in certain lineups. Players also have to be given an opportunity to impress in order to fill out the roster.

Couple that with teaching the new players about the existing systems and the big one — implementing an entirely new, more diverse motion driven offense.

https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1181739104125407233

Much like the Mavericks sat their two young stars tonight many clubs will follow suit especially with veteran players. In the case of the OKC Thunder, this situation is magnified based of the likelihood Chris Paul and Danilo Gallinari are destined for the trade block. In Gallo’s case, he also participated in FIBA. Donovan has a precarious tightrope to walk in order to keep both vets healthy but play them enough to showcase their skills.

Given these circumstances, the grades for this game are indicative of the product on the court but not what either vet or some of the returning middle-tier vets will bring to the hardwood come October 23rd in Utah.