OKC Thunder: 3 keys to victory vs. the Miami Heat
By Mark Nilon
OKC Thunder key No. 3) Darius Bazley needs to show out on offense
Coming into the season, hype was high for second-year forward Darius Bazley, with us at TI projecting him to be a potential breakout candidate for the team by year’s end.
Now, through five games played the 20-year-old has had somewhat of an up-and-down start. However, with this semi-rollercoaster ride, it has shown how vital he is to the final outcome of the game for the OKC Thunder.
During their three losses, Bazley has struggled mightily, averaging just 7.3 points, seven rebounds, and three turnovers on a measly 29 percent shooting from the floor and 18 percent shooting from deep.
During their victories, however, these numbers skyrocket to a double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds on a stellar 64 percent shooting from the field and 33 percent shooting from deep while boasting an offensive rating of 140.
Bazley has the potential to be a bonafide stud in this league if he can piece everything together and, with that, at a consistent rate.
Already proving vital during the 2020-21 season, a solid offensive showing from the second-year baller will be highly beneficial and quite impactful for the Thunder tonight.