OKC Thunder learn valuable lessons after 107-70 pummeling by Mavericks

OKC Thunder: Luka Doncic #77, and Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Dallas Mavericks (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)
OKC Thunder: Luka Doncic #77, and Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Dallas Mavericks (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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OKC Thunder: Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks takes a shot against the Thunder during a preseason game (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

Mavericks duo feasts:

For anyone questioning how the pairing of Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis is going to work out, they got that answer with a resounding WOW! These two are going to be magnificent together and even though it was a preseason game it’s easy to see how quickly the pair have gelled.

Many wondered how Porzingis would respond to his ACL injury and being off the court a full year. The unicorn appears to have the same attributes which had many citing him as a potential All-Star delivering an easy double-double of 17 points and 13 rebounds (3 offensive boards) and a block in 26 minutes. The only hitch in his game was his shooting efficiency (7 of 21 from the field and 3 of 9 from deep), however, he’s still working off the rust so that should even out as he gets more mileage in game situations.

As for those who suggested fans had witnessed everything there was to see from the reigning Rookie of the Year it seems that assessment underestimated the 20-year old wunderkid. In particular, it’s clear he spent time this offseason working on his body.

In the match, he came three assists shy of producing a triple-double posting 19 points, 19 rebounds and 7 assists along with a block and steal while drawing fouls which landed him at the line 11 times. His one drawback was the six turnovers he committed. Fans who play fantasy would be well served to select the youngster as he’ll likely load up the stat sheet this season.