OKC Thunder: Gallinari dagger 3-pointer buries Pistons – grades

In some recent road games Luguentz Dort has struggled — and that’s typical for a rookie. In this contest, however, Dort provided about as much as you could ask for from him. He was efficient offensively when called upon scoring six points on 2 of 5 from the field including one 3-pointer. He also pulled down five key rebounds and had no turnovers.

Kudos to Billy Donovan for playing Danilo Gallinari in what was almost a must-win scenario. His dagger 3-pointer pretty much sealed the win. But he was stellar on a whole in this match scoring 19 points on an efficient 7 of 15 from the field and was an okay 3 of 8 from deep. More importantly, he grabbed seven boards and snared FOUR steals.

There are some concerns defensively especially once the Thunder hit the postseason but his floor spacing and overall skill set is a vital part of this team.

Even as I enter a B+ for Adams I’m questioning the grade being too low. Sure he only had eight points and seven rebounds but his effect on the floor can’t be denied.

Factor in three assists, three steals, a block and everything he does that doesn’t register in a stat sheet and it’s hard not to cite him as the x-factor on this club.

Since I’ve explained the grade I’ll leave it (and there are those five turnovers to consider) but it’s important to note I’m just as moved to change it to an “A”.