OKC Thunder: 3 areas of focus for Aleksej Pokusevski in second half

This weekend the OKC Thunder G-League affiliate OKC Blue finished their bubble experience losing the final game of the 15-game season. The Blue held their playoff fate in their own hands as a win versus the Santa Cruz Warriors would have cemented their playoff berth.

Despite pushing the Warriors to overtime the Blue failed to capitalize losing 113-103. They still had a chance to get into the eight-team playoffs depending on the outcome of the Ignite team performed. That chance was quickly erased as the Ignite beat the Austin Spurs 127-92.

The odd part of this equation is the Thunder recalled rookie Aleksej Pokusevski prior to the match on Saturday. Whether his presence would’ve helped or not is a moot point now but with the team on the All-Star break it’s odd they wouldn’t let the rookie gain that experience.

In his 13 games with the Blue, Pokusevski averaged 7.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists and used his length to collect 1.08 blocks.

POKU made some highlight reels for his crazy behind-the-back pass as he launched himself out of bounds to save the ball.

The rookie’s other big highlight featured 19 rebounds in a double-double performance (12 points) versus the Austin Spurs. Pokusevski also hit that benchmark against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers with 19 points and 10 rebounds.

OKC Thunder rookie Aleksej Pokusevski 3 areas of focus in second half

As he returns to the varsity team the goal will be to continue his development. Certainly, his length will be useful in terms of gaining rebounds and rim protection. The big question is how much his defense developed while getting consistent playing time in the G-League bubble and whether that can translate with the Thunder.

In his 17 appearances with the varsity club, his output was mediocre with 3.3 points, 3.5 rebounds,1.2 assists, and 1.12 blocks.

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Presumably, VP Sam Presti wanted the youngster back so they can gauge his growth and also transition him back into the rotation. With the expectation, the club will be trying to move Al Horford at the deadline they’ll need another big for depth.

The other unspoken reality is the Thunder have performed above expectations so with the onus on moving down the ladder for a top draft pick it’s also wise to have their youngsters gaining time playing with each other to accelerate the chemistry among players who’ll return next season.

In terms of what the rookie should focus on with his return to Oklahoma City, three obvious areas stand out.  Poku needs to work on gaining consistency and efficiency, particularly on the perimeter. While shooting an abysmal 27.0 percent with the Blue that’s an improvement over his Thunder average of 17.9 percent.

Adding strength and muscle is another priority as Pokusevski’s lean body prevents him from being able to defend NBA talents who can simply outmuscle him. So, hitting the weight room is a must.

The final point is broader in scope in that Aleksej just needs to be a sponge and work on the simple things that will allow him to contribute.

The OKC Thunder return to the hardwood this Thursday as they host the Mavericks. Presumably, Pokusevski will get some burn in that match and moving forward into the second half.