OKC Thunder – Rockets Game 2 Grades -Dort’s return spoiled

Best OKC Thunder Reserve:

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This wasn’t a particularly bad or good game from Schroder who may still be adjusting to his time spent away. Some might be expecting more of an offensive outburst, but logically, his size limits that potential. For as much as we drone on about the “small-ball Rockets,” the reality is they have a ton of players who are large at their position.

The next time Schroder lines up against Harden if your device or TV allows pause it — look at the size differential.

And that’s what is occurring in many of the positions. Yes, the Rockets play small ball – but they aren’t truly undersized anywhere except at the center, and in this era, even their power forward isn’t necessarily undersized. We highlighted this face in our post discussing issues the Thunder would need to address.

Overall, Schroder had the type of production we’d normally be satisfied with. He posted 13 points, five rebounds, and five assists. On most nights we’d be thrilled by this statline because it reflects he wasn’t forcing his shot and he was active in the paint (rebounding) and getting his team involved (assists).

Best Opponent:

I considered giving the hat tip to Danuel House since he became the x-factor in this win for the Rockets but despite a cold shooting night for James Harden he still did enough to warrant the top marks.

He certainly wasn’t happy to see Lu Dort back and the run the Rockets made that was the difference in Houston winning occurred with him sitting. That said,  what team doesn’t want a player who produces 21 points, nine assists, five rebounds, three steals, and a block on their off night?

Any other player gets an “A” but fans expect more from an MVP candidate so he gets the “A-“.

Next up the OKC Thunder are back at in Game 3 on Saturday. It could be the first time we see Russell Westbrook although if you’re the Rockets why rush him back now?

For a full box score of tonight’s game, head over to this link courtesy of ESPN.