Thunder Nation patiently awaits the decision that will eventually be made regarding youngster Lu Dort. The fact he remains in the starting rotation even after Donovan’s accolades about Terrance Ferguson feels like a cue the Canadian isn’t going anywhere.
Grading Dort on the typical items also feels inappropriate. Sure, there is the high-end defensive assignment to watch, his overall aggressiveness and how quickly he adapts. All pluses on this night.
Ultimately, the fact he’s having to prepare for games as a rookie without the benefit of his teammates is a marvel all on its own and we’re left to wonder if (when?) he gets inked to a deal just how high his ceiling will be moving forward once he does get those typical benefits like the team practice and film review sessions with his peers.
This was one of my favorite games by Danilo Gallinari as he showcased the full toolbox and not just in terms of his production (24 points, six rebounds, steal). His efficiency was also back to typical Gallinari levels as he shot 8 of 17 from the field, 4 of 8 from deep and 4 of 5 from the line.
Rather it was all those intangibles he brings to the floor like the late game steal and flush at the basket. His scrappiness has been dialed up a notch of late. Maybe, he’s building toward the postseason.
All I know is my favorite version of Danilo is Scrappy Gallo!
What a difference we’re getting from the Big Kiwi, Steven Adams when he is playing even relatively healthy. It’s been a treat to watch his movement since returning from the break and it’s always the little goodies that make me smile.
The big on big lob pass by Adams to Gallo in the third was just one of those moments.
Adams fell short of the double-double on this night (15 points, seven rebounds, an assist). Harry Giles proved to be a handful but perhaps because the Thunder won the game even that wasn’t bothersome.
The other big play that stood out was the CP3 drop off pass into the trailing Adams for his easy throw down dunk seemingly deflating the Kings squad.