The OKC Thunder’s future looks bright.
That’s something we’ve heard a lot over the past year.
Just before the game, Adrian Wojnarowski announced that the Thunder will not play Al Horford for the rest of the season. This is in order to focus on the young players and letting them have more minutes on the floor.
In a statement, Horford said:
"I know what it’s like to be a young, aspiring player, and at this point in the season I understand how important playing meaningful minutes is for their careers and their development. I look forward to supporting the guys who supported me…”"
Respect to the veteran for being willing to give up his position on the court for the good of his team. It was fun watching Horford play when he did and no doubt with help from Sam Presti, he’ll find the best destination in the offseason.
Everything that Horford said was true because, against the Celtics, the young guys got their chance to shine once again.
It was another step in the right direction of growing and learning despite the 111-94 loss, and we have three takeaways from the OKC Thunder’s loss to the Cs:
No. 1) Moses Brown is built different
MOSES BROWN STAND UP!
Moses had everyone talking during his dominant and extraordinary performance. He set the record for the most rebounds in a half by a player this season with 19. And also set the record for the most rebounds in a half in OKC history.
The last time someone had recorded 17 points and 19 rebounds in the first half was in 1998 which was achieved by Shaquille O’Neal.
Moses was a one-year-old at the time.
He finished with 21 points, 23 rebounds and went for an impressive 8-10 shooting from the field.
TI’s Ryan tells a story of his incredible rise which you can read here.
No. 2) OKC Thunder can win with less experience
Even after a big loss, there was a good chance it could’ve gone the other way.
The starting lineup was made up of players 23 years or younger and only one of them in Lu Dort is a regular starter. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that the squad who took on the Celtics would almost have more G-League experience than actual NBA experience.
And at half-time, that same OKC Thunder roster led 52-47 and held a lead for all of the first 24 minutes.
Just imagine what it’s going to be like when the team isn’t tanking.
No. 3) Theo Maledon showing leadership potential
Theo Maledon is a future leader of the franchise.
Without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Maledon was of the main offensive operators.
He led all Thunder scorers with 22 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Plus four 3-pointers.
Of course, leadership isn’t just asserting yourself and scoring a lot of points. However, it’s a tremendous example of how to compete and conduct yourself. Throughout his rookie season, he has gone from strength to strength, showing his ability to facilitate as well as score.