OKC Thunder: 3 key takeaways learned in week one of training camp

The OKC Thunder sophomores made big offseason improvements:

Speaking of playmaking the two returning sophomores will be conducting plenty of playmaking themselves. Yet the dime dishing was never truly in question. Rather the areas for each to expand upon this offseason centered on other specific areas.

For Aleksej Pokusevski the emphasis of his entire offseason had more to do with his body. Improving his strength, endurance and stamina were at the core of his efforts. Coach Daigneault commented several times in post-practice pressers that it’s clear POKU is stronger. He stated that is impacting his ability to fend off defenders and likewise be more effective on the defensive end of the hardwood. Coach also noted how the game has slowed down for the youngster and it’s noticeable in his decision making.

POKU himself stated he noticed a big difference this year in comparison to last year when he had a tough time in training camp being able to keep up. This season although he stated the practices are tough, he’s been able to finish each session with more energy.

In the case of Theo Maledon, this season should find him spending much more time with the reserve unit given the return of SGA and the team wanting to get rookie Josh Giddey ample minutes alongside SGA.  From that perspective, the Thunder should experience an uptick offensively from the bench unit.

Daigneault touched on many of Theo’s better games last season occurred when he wasn’t the primary (or lone) playmaker on the court. Or when he was in situations splitting time on and off the ball with other capable ballhandlers like SGA and Dort.

Consider the numerous playmakers OKC could have on the court simultaneously with that unit: Maledon, POKU, Kenny Hustle, Vit Krejci, and Ty Jerome for example. Maledon will be hoping there is enough floor spacing to make his path to the paint easier and so far his coach is noting his improvement in scoring at the rim.