OKC Thunder make it 5 in a row with defeat of Cavaliers – grades

With the Cavaliers focus on their young backcourt of Darius Garland and Collin Sexton the order of the night for Terrance Ferguson was keeping them within a reasonable range. They Cavs youngsters combined for 50 points but while the game was still up for grabs they were held in check.

Recalling the point made regarding the quiet whistle for OKC which sent CP3 and SGA to the line for a combined four attempts — the Cavs guards received more than double that amount with 10 combined free throws.

A big sign the team felt comfortable with the lead and weren’t concerned about the Cavaliers was the number of shots TFerg took. In very uncharacteristic fashion the wing who averages 4.5 field goal attempts per game took more than double that amount with 10. And, he was efficient, connecting on half while also drilling three of his eight 3-point shots. He added a rebound and a single assist.

As noted in the previous two games since his return Danilo Gallinari would need to take some time to shake off the rust and rediscover his flow. In just his third game back he’s still addressing those issues as he shot an untypical 6 of 21 from the field for 19 points. However, his perimeter shot was back on track as the forward connected on five of his 11 long balls.

The rest of his game was also more in line with a typical outing as he chipped in with five rebounds (three offensive boards) and three assists.

Defensively he did his job making sure Love didn’t get copious touches despite Kevin seeming to have the touch. And, in fairness to Love’s stated concerns, the Cavs backcourt tends to call their own number even at the cost of the team trying to win.

In a game where the Thunder built an early lead, it afforded Gallo with an opportunity to get extra shots up and although it might not have resulted in great efficiency in this game it could help his rhythm for the next match.

Even though the Cavaliers guards are Cleveland’s offensive focus it’s Tristan Thompson who has beasted on the boards all season and is registering career scoring stats.

Holding Thompson to three points on 1 of 7 shooting speaks to Adams’ dominance in the match. Sure, Thompson grabbed 14 rebounds but even in this category, the Big Kiwi got the better of the Canadian as he pulled down 16 boards with EIGHT of those coming on the offensive glass.

Thompson averages four offensive boards per game so limiting him to two was another sign of Adams winning their battle. Both Love and Thompson are averaging double-doubles and neither were able to meet those standards in the match.

As per usual, the Thunder big man did things that won’t show up on a stats sheet, like set perfect screens and help defensively.

On the night, Adams was the only player to collect a double-double (10 points, 16 rebounds) while also dishing four dimes, along with a steal and block.

Of note” those eight offensive boards and handling of Thompson/Love earn the center the extra plus in his grade.