Best OKC Thunder Reserve:
The third player on the team who collected a double-double was Nerlens Noel who registered a larger mark than his starting counterpart Adams. In 23 minutes Noel produced a line of 12 points, 12 rebounds (EIGHT offensive boards), an assist and two blocks.
An impressive showing by the Thunder backup center.
Kudos to Dennis Schroder who also deserves credit for his 20 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Either could’ve got the nod in this position for their performances. I went with Noel based on the double-double in limited time and those eight huge offensive boards.
Best Opponent:
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Watching Luka Doncic pull his jersey over his face after missing the last 3-point shot my heart went out to the young man who puts so much emphasis on himself to perform and win. The 20 year old (let’s repeat that — the TWENTY year old) collected a double-double of 35 points, 10 rebounds adding seven assists and a steal.
His only slight on the night was his perimeter shot was off as he went 3 of 16 from deep. That said, he was playing without the benefit of having Kristaps Porzingis in the lineup and it was clear how magnificent this youngster is with all the bodies Billy Donovan had to task with taking a turn at trying to limit Doncic.
Even crazier — this was actually an off shooting night from Luka overall which speaks more to the defensive effort than his own shortcomings.
With players like Doncic and Gilgeous-Alexander in the NBA – the future of the league looks extremely bright.
The first game of 2020 for the OKC Thunder is Thursday, January 2nd as the team begins another four game road trip starting in San Antonio who also won tonight in overtime.
For a full box score of tonight’s game, head over to this link courtesy of ESPN.