OKC Thunder zoned out in loss to Heat: 3 takeaways

Lack of depth highlighted:

It was great to have Nerlens Noel back and he looked sharp considering how long he was out. Yet, the loss of Steven Adams due to the contused knee put the Thunder in a hole even prior to the tip.

Adams would’ve offered resistance to the ever improving (and deserving to be a first time All-Star) Bam Adebayo. The loss of Terrance Ferguson to illness meant OKC was also without their best lockdown guard or wing defender.

If I told you pregame the Thunder would be without Adams and TFerg it’s doubtful you’d feel confident OKC could win.

What their absences pinpointed is the lack of depth on the OKC Thunder. The team is developing youngsters like Hamidou Diallo, Darius Bazley and others who simply aren’t ready to carry a greater load.

It is curious Donovan didn’t give any time to Justin Patton who could’ve provided rim protection, rebounding, and defense (it’s not like Mike Muscala‘s six points or mediocre defense were essential to this match).

To that end, Presti and Donovan have done a stellar job on the reposition portion of the new team mantra. But, the second half of that mantra (replenish) requires more attention.