OKC Thunder: 3 takeaways in big win over Atlanta Hawks

Feb 26, 2021; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Darius Bazley (7) goes to the basket as Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela (15) defends the shot during the first half at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 26, 2021; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Darius Bazley (7) goes to the basket as Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela (15) defends the shot during the first half at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports /
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OKC Thunder takeaway No. 3) Bazley gets his groove back

Bazley’s struggles seemed like a thing of the past after the performance he put on in Friday’s game.

Just two nights after going 0-for-8 and scoreless against the San Antonio Spurs, Bazley erupted against the Hawks, choosing to drive in for a layup or crush the rim with a monster dunk. Bazley was locked in; that much was apparent.

Before tip-off against the Hawks, Bazley was averaging 5.7 points per game on 29 percent shooting. OKC Thunder coach Mark Daigneault left him in games because of his rebounding capabilities, but the playmaker and confident scorer we’ve grown to love was gone.

Friday told a different story.

Bazley was a man possessed, as he scored 18 points on 66.7 percent shooting and grabbed a team-high 12 rebounds. He also picked up one assist, one steal, and one block.

His standout play was a welcomed sight. Here’s to hoping he continues to trend in that direction.

You can view the full box score here.

The OKC Thunder host the Denver Nuggets at 7 p.m. Saturday.

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