Predicting how OKC Thunder would perform in trio of return scenarios

Closing:

Every player, coach, and manager who has discussed what is needed in terms of ramping up when/if the season returns have said a minimum of two weeks or longer will be required. Most have said they don’t want to jump right into the playoffs. This isn’t a surprising stance because first, the players will need to get into game shape and second they’ll need reps on the court versus a challenger.

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If you think back to the season start the opening matches are often sloppy affairs with terrible field goal percent because players haven’t found their rhythm yet. Imagine a three month or longer hiatus with a good majority of your roster not having access to a gym or being able to shoot.

Then factor in the potential for a three-game first-round series with your team in preseason form and it’s a recipe for disaster.

For the above reasons and because the powers that be will be desirous of the best players making deep runs it should equate to some games being played.

Ultimately, other than that draft pick the OKC Thunder would likely fare well in each scenario. Three keys are the road, clutch time and leadership. The Thunder are one of the best road teams, have a killer closing unit with ample minutes played and positive results to fall back on and like Charles Barkley says Chris Paul is the best leader in the NBA.

Playing the Jazz is a great matchup and arguably the Lakers would be a better second round matchup than the Clippers.

The final thought I’ll leave you with is this hiatus could help the one player most vital to the Thunder postseason – Chris Paul. Although he’s looked rejuvenated he’ll turn 35 on May 6th so getting him some extended time off might behoove the team in the long run.