As the OKC Thunder lose their fourth game in five outings the fanbase is standing behind the team and embracing their competitive nature.
There is a certain irony to how the OKC Thunder has started this season. That’s because last year the team had precisely the same 1-4 record after five games. The difference is OKC doesn’t have two superstars on the squad any longer.
Consider how many times last season the Thunder lost close matches or required one of Russell Westbrook or Paul George to play hero ball in order for the squad to pull out a win. This season that person – the ‘Mr. Clutch’ if you will hasn’t been established.
Although there were hints tonight Chris Paul is ready to assume the role. Either from the perspective of being the go-to scorer or in leading the team to read the opponent’s defense and deliver the pass that will get the most open shot.
For the fan base, there are also two big differences this season. Everyone in Thunder Nation knows it’s almost a veritable certainty Sam Presti will trade several vets before the trade deadline. Danilo Gallinari and Chris Paul top that list.
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Gallo because he is on an expiring contract and with his array of tools he’ll draw big return value for the OKC Thunder. Paul more so because of his bloated contract and the franchise wants to do right by him and send him to a contender so he can win a ring.
The other big difference is expectations, or rather the lack of expectations. When the team had superstars it was expected OKC would compete for the title. This season, fans are embracing the losses. To that end, Sam Presti and the franchise brass should be delighted with the fan base as they are so supportive of the team and recognize the bigger picture.
As noted tonight on our Twitter site – the cup half full is these close losses allow for the team to feel competitive while still being in the mix for a high draft pick. The cup half empty belongs to fans who have a hard time losing and have hopes for more victories. In both cases, the ultimate wish is for growth and roster improvements.
These two responses reflect the two sides and commitment from the fans regarding the losses:
This is the happiest 1-4 record ever! Been super competitive in every game. If we play like that every game and end up with a top 5 pick at the end of the year, I think that’s a huge win-win
— Malakai (@malakaifc) October 31, 2019
I’m right there with you. It’s tough, but either way we have something to be optimistic about.
— STL Cardinals Nation (@stl_nation) October 31, 2019
Moving forward there are bound to be more losses especially if major trades occur. The only thing to be wary of is if the team reaches a point where losing not only becomes the norm but the team gets comfortable in doing so.
That said, one of Sam Presti’s best abilities is being able to find players with substance and high compete level.
Certainly, the future building blocks starting with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander appears to be yet another example of a player with these attributes. And given the responses of the fans, Thunder Nation exhibit those same qualities!