OKC Thunder: 5 keys to victory over Rockets

Play to Thunder identity:

OKC has steadily improved throughout the season defensively. Each month they’ve climbed the ladder and by season end had moved up to seventh.

During the eight seeding games in the bubble, they ranked second behind (gee this team’s name is coming up a lot!) the Raptors.

For all the Rockets’ strengths where they capitalize on opponents, there are equally appealing areas where teams can capitalize.

Four major categories stand out:

• points allowed off turnovers: 17.8 – ranks tied for 24th
• second-chance points: 14.1 – ranks 27th
• fast break scoring: 15.1 points -ranks 27th
• points scored in the paint: 51.5 points – ranks 26th

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Since adding Covington and having him on the court with Tucker the Rockets have improved defensively but there is only so much those two can do to stop teams.

The Thunder must play to their identity and take it to the Rockets. The one fact Billy Donovan can work with is if he elects to play big the Rockets can’t adapt – it’s small ball or nothing for them. To that end, Donovan has hinted he’ll put Darius Bazley on the floor more at the five and given his recent scoring outburst that’s not a bad idea to test.

The basketball Gods might be doing Thunder Nation a favor. It’s one thing to witness Russ at Chesapeake in season, I’m not sure how emotional it would be to face him in the postseason.

In that regard, while no one wants Westbrook to be out long the team has to rise up and take advantage of the Rockets while he is out.

Chris Paul, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and the crew will begin that conquest today. Best of luck to the Clutch Time Killers – Thunder Up!