OKC Thunder vs Blazers: 3 Takeaways – Bazley and Diallo produce career nights

Diallo time:

Hamidou Diallo had arguably his best game ever in an OKC Thunder uniform. Just prior to his injury Diallo was beginning to fit in with the team and find his offensive flow. In 12 games before his injury, he reached double-figure scoring five times and was within one or two points of doing so in four of the other seven games.

Upon his return, he played in 26 additional games but only reached double-figures on four occasions.

While he’s struggled from the perimeter throughout his career his athleticism affords him opportunities to help the team. On this day it was as if everything clicked and Hami figured out the perfect mix to his offense.

He achieved a career-high 16 points, didn’t force shots but took one perimeter shot and connected on it. In addition, he was active on defense grabbing five rebounds with three offensive boards, had a block, and three huge steals.  His plus 16 was reminiscent of his day at the office trailing only Dennis Schroder (+17) and Mike Muscala (+23).