OKC Thunder grades: 4th quarter mini burst seals game for Grizzlies

OKC Thunder starting lineup grades:

To be frank, after missing four games with a knee sprain I expected Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to struggle more with his shot. His rhythm wasn’t affected though as he shot 6 of 14 from the field, 2 of 5 from deep, and flushed all eight free throws. He finished with 22 points, three rebounds, six assists, and had just a single turnover.

While his presence may have been the difference in those close battles last week he showed immediately upon his return why he’s the player this franchise will build their future around.

With Gilgeous-Alexander back Luguentz Dort didn’t need to carry as much of the offensive burden but he also struggled against the Grizzlies. While Intentions could lament his 2 of 10 from the field or 1 of 7 from deep we’d rather focus on the aggression that led to seven trips to the charity stripe.

It wasn’t one of his best performances, but like his young teammates, he’s learning as he goes and is never shy of the big moment.

Dort finished with 11 points, two rebounds, an assist, and a block. The grade could be harsher but he gets a little carryover for that insane dunk on the Blazers.

There is much to love about rookie Theo Maledon. He never forces his shot but is always aggressive. He plays with the mind of a veteran which bodes very well for how the point guard will improve and grow as he gains experience.

In his second game back after missing four, he was efficient connecting on 4 of 5 shots from the field (all 3-pointers) and got to the line. He added five rebounds, two assists, and two steals with the only negative being his three turnovers.

Over the next few seasons, we’ll reflect back on these moments in Darius Bazley‘s career and remember this was the start of something special. It’s important to remind ourselves Bazley is just 20 years old. He’s made strides this season and shown glimpses of his potential.

Baz finished with 18 points, seven rebounds, two assists shooting 7 of 14 from the field and 4 of 8 from deep.

Clearly. the youngster needs to add strength so he can compete as hard in the second half as the first half. Much of his success, particularly offensively occurs in the first half of games.

To wit, on Wednesday of his 18 points, six came in the second half as he made one 3-pointer in each of the third and fourth quarters.  He’s made a jump this season and with his work ethic, the forward will eventually be able to produce through 48 minutes. In the interim, it’s fun watching him grow virtually on a nightly basis.

With the Thunder resting Al Horford in back-to-back sets Isaiah Roby got the tap to start. Facing big man Jonas Valanciunas was a big task (and would’ve been for Horford) but Roby didn’t back down trying his best to keep him in check.

JV finished with 22 points and 12 rebounds which might seem excessive but Roby held his ground delivering 11 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and two steals.  Roby’s rebounding was tops on the team and he continues to impress with his full set of skills.