Gallo enters the Thunder history books:
With the team trying to cut the massive deficit those 42 perimeter shots meant players who typically don’t force shots were doing so. For example, on five previous occasions this season Gallinari attempted double-figure shots from the perimeter so his 11 attempts versus the Raptors fell in the exception, not the rule column.
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He still managed to hit at an efficient rate of 4 for 11 or 36.3 percent (his season average is 40.1 percent from deep). Dennis Schroder was the other teammate who put up double-figure attempts at a highly efficient 5 for 10.
With the team playing catch-up although Gallo took more shots than he typically does and was slightly less efficient than average from deep surprisingly his overall efficiency was precisely the same as his season average (43.7 percent).
The big news was Gallinari entered the Thunder history books. With his four successful perimeter shots, it was the 11th game in a row he has hit three or more 3-pointers. The previous high of 10 games in a row was held by Paul George who achieved his streak between December 10th and 30th of 2018.
Consider the fact Kevin Durant who won several scoring titles and Paul George who was a finalist for Most Valuable Player last year aren’t who holds this title. All it does is reinforce how valuable Gallinari is and punctuate what TI has droned on about all season — his consistency and efficiency. Insert this narrator’s ongoing rant — “please Sam Presti, find a way to keep Danillo Gallinari on the Thunder.”
That wraps up the three takeaways. The OKC Thunder is back in action Friday evening facing the Miami Heat. Make sure to stay connected with Thunderous Intentions for articles on your favorite team and players.