OKC Thunder get routed by Pelicans in Steven Adams return – Grades
OKC Thunder starting lineup grades:
G. Oklahoma City Thunder. GEORGE HILL. C.
George Hill made 2-of-3 from deep and set up two other makes in the first quarter. He played what can only be described as a veteran game of basketball, making the right plays at the right time. He tried to make sure the younger guys got their touches when he knew the Thunder were out of the contest.
Oklahoma City Thunder. SHAI GILGEOUS-ALEXANDER. B-. . G/F
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a quiet first period. Looked to be pushing it a little hard, trying to force his will on the game. He was getting shut down by the Pelicans defense. Started to play more in the flow in the third period making the Thunder offense look better. The Pelicans played him close, forcing him into contested shots and turnovers. Still had four assists on the night
C+. . PG. Oklahoma City Thunder. LU DORT
Luguentz Dort had a quiet first period, he hit one shot from deep. The two early fouls he picked up limited his game time. Came alive in the third period for five quick points. Tag teamed defense on Brandon Ingram with Darius Bazley. Quietest game of the season for the second-year stud but he will learn from it.
A-. . SF. Oklahoma City Thunder. DARIUS BAZLEY
No one will ever question Darius Bazley’s effort. He could have scored a lot more but was denied by the officials calling an offensive goal-tend and a questionable travel. Played amazing defense on Ingram when he switched with Dort. Spent the night making life hard for Williamson and limiting his effectiveness.
. F/C. Oklahoma City Thunder. AL HORFORD. A-
Al Horford made his only two shots for the quarter, both from deep. Came back on in the second and made his third straight three. However, the problem for the Thunder is no one is there to fight for the offensive board if he is on the perimeter. He was the best Thunder player on the night on offense and played really solid defense.