OKC Thunder vs 76ers: 3 Takeaways – Roberson and rookies shine

Bazley impresses:

Postgame Billy Donovan said he felt both Darius Bazley and Hamidou Diallo had sub-par games on Friday versus the Celtics. He was thrilled by their bounce-back effort stating how a young player responds to adversity is key.

We’ve noted how Bazley’s ballhandling skills are underutilized but it’s clear Donovan is fully aware of those skills. This was evidenced by the 6’8″ youngster leading the break on several occasions Sunday.

There were several highpoints to earmark for Bazley following the win. His offensive aggressiveness stands out as the top point. Bazley got to the line six times on a day when the Thunder struggled to get to the stripe at their typical rate (in the first half). He tied Dort with 13 points shooting 4 of 8 from the field and 2 of 6 from the perimeter on a silky smooth shot.

The rookie also produced defensively grabbing seven rebounds, a steal, and a block. The more he understands his size and skills are a threat that many opponents will have issues stopping, the more he’ll improve.

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As a suggestion, it would smart for the Thunder to have Bazley view film of Pascal Siakam who often leads the break and handles playmaking responsibility for the Raptors.

Like Siakam, Bazley has a decided advantage working against guards with his height and bigs with his speed.

While Billy Donovan will utilize his reserves often throughout the seeding games it’s likely he’ll cut back once the playoffs start.

Dort is already enmeshed with the starters while Schroder and Nerlens Noel are cemented as the first players off the bench. Given Roberson has returned with the same (and better) ability and Bazley is growing seemingly every game out it won’t be surprising if the Thunder runs nine deep.