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OKC Thunder: 3 takeaways feature superb defense in win vs. Rockets

By Shontelle Matano

Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) drives to the basket between OKC Thunder forward Isaiah Roby (22) and center Mike Muscala (33) during the second half at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports.
Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) drives to the basket between OKC Thunder forward Isaiah Roby (22) and center Mike Muscala (33) during the second half at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports. /
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OKC Thunder guard Theo Maledon (11) strips the ball off Houston Rockets guard Victor Oladipo (7). Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports. /

No. 2) Defense wins games

“I loved [the defense]. That was the game plan to come out and play hard for the full 48 minutes, and get after it defensively.” This is what Williams talked about after his team’s big win.

After a spell of defensive trouble, giving up over 130 points in consecutive games, OKC forced the Rockets to record a season-low score for a Thunder opponent.

Only 87 points with 33 of them coming in the second and third quarter. It’s a reflection of the Thunder’s incredible work guarding the boards and really making Houston work for every point.

Two standouts were Darius Bazley who got TWELVE rebounds and Theo Maledon who snagged SIX steals. Just like it’s been proven on past OKC rosters’ when the team is thriving on the defensive end, everything else falls into place. It made it easier for them to get going on offense and remain in the lead.

The Thunder’s greatest lead of the game was by 30 points, thanks in large part to their aggressiveness.

Enjoy the highlight above of one of Maledon’s crazy steals.

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