OKC Thunder one year later – how ‘the shot’ shifted the franchise

Remembering the worst series in franchise history

Despite the confidence displayed by myself, the media, and OKC Thunder fans alike heading into the series, the Blazers ran away with it. They lost game one 104-99, and game two was even worse 114-94.

Throughout the first game, Enes Kanter was a star. He went from ‘Can’t play Kanter’, to Portland never wanting him to leave the floor. Kanter posted 20 points and 18 rebounds with a steal and a pair of blocks.

In game two, it was CJ McCollum’s turn. Battling through injuries, McCollum played 36 minutes to the tune of 33 points, five assists, and eight rebounds. Not to mention his effective shooting numbers.

Damian Lillard was the model of consistency going for 30 points, and 29 points in each of the first two games in Portland, while Russell Westbrook did not score more than 24 points, including a disappointing 14 point effort in the second game.

As the series shifted to Oklahoma City, so did the momentum. Russ finally broke out going for 33 points, with 11 assists and five rebounds to boot. Westbrook shot four of six from downtown and went 50 percent from the field.

The OKC Thunder saw five men score in double figures in game three, on their way to an impressive 120-108 victory. I can still see the sea of orange for the first time in OKC Thunder history the fans dawning beautiful orange playoff shirts.

I can also see visions of Dennis Schroder rocking the baby, and mimicking Damian Lilliard’s “Dame time celebration.” Those were the lone bright spots of this series for OKC Thunder fans.

Game three would be the only win for the boys in blue that postseason, despite holding Dame to under 29 points for the first time all postseason, another 14 point night from Westbrook on 23 percent shooting wouldn’t get the job done in game four.

As the series headed back to Portland, the OKC Thunder would need a miracle to escape the first round for the first time since Kevin Durant left Bricktown.