Grading Thunder Players After Friday’s Loss at Memphis

Best OKC Thunder reserve performance:

Mark Daigneault has frequently used JRE as a starter this year, but he came off the bench on Friday night. He still played 28 minutes, scoring 14 points on 6-9 shooting. He added three blocks on the defensive end and was a +13 during his time on the court. JRE’s performance was a huge reason why the Thunder were able to keep the game close during the fourth quarter. His dunk with 3:42 left in the game brought the Thunder within six points, and he blocked Dillon Brooks on a dunk attempt less than one minute later. Five of his seven rebounds also came during the final period. He missed both of his three-pointers in Friday’s game, but his three-point shooting percentage is still at 42 percent for the season. It’s nice to know that JRE can perform well in multiple roles.

Best opponent performance:

The Thunder simply had no answer for Jaren Jackson Jr. He scored 25 points in 25 minutes and snagged 12 rebounds (five on the offensive end). He was a menace on defense as well, blocking three shots and adding two steals. His long-range shooting doesn’t always look pretty, but he still managed to drain three of his six three-pointers. The Thunder’s lack of a traditional rim protector is one of the team’s greatest weaknesses, and fans shouldn’t be surprised anytime a talented offensive big man puts up a big game against OKC.

In closing:

The Thunder finished the road trip with a 2-2 record but was highly competitive in each of their four games away from Oklahoma City. They now head home for three games at the Paycom Center next week. Fans will have their next chance to see the Thunder take the court on Monday night at 7 pm when the Knicks come to town.