OKC Thunder player grades: Lu Dort’s gem not enough vs. Pistons

OKC Thunder starting lineup grades:

Theo Maledon recorded eight points, eight rebounds, three steals, and two assists. Despite going only 3-14 from the field, he made up for it with his hustle and grit.

He’s an all-rounder and has flown under the radar in his rookie season, but deserves to be recognized as he’s seamlessly fit into the roster and been impressive covering for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Dort was marvelous against the Pistons, adding six rebounds, three steals, two assists, and a block to his 26 points. He thrives on both ends of the floor as shown by his ability to guard the best player on your team while having a scoring field day.

He is only scratching the surface and it’s so much fun to watch.

Darius Bazley scored 19 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and one steal.

A highlight from his game against Detroit was his explosive dunk in the first quarter as he bolted down the lane and went up for the massive slam that got everyone out of the way.

What’s incredible is you wouldn’t even know he recently returned from a torn scapula and is averaging 16.3 points across four matches back.

Moses Brown recorded 12 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks. He fought hard to get second-chance points and the chemistry between him and Maledon was striking. As always he provided a powerful force under the rim.

As OKC Thunder analyst, Michael Cage described it: “Mr. Brown pick’s up that loose change off the floor, and what do you do with it? Put it in your pocket.”

Isaiah Roby finished the game with nine points, four rebounds, two assists, and two blocks. It was a good performance despite playing the least minutes (22) out of all starters.

It’s great to have him back in the lineup and with the addition of Brown, it has taken a load off of him. But it’s still nice to see him making an impact.