Defense remains key for OKC Thunder; 3 Takeaways vs Pistons

Aleksej Pokusevski can not find a groove

For a long time, Aleksej Pokusevski has looked like a mixed bag of skill sheathed in the NBA’s lankiest. His days as an intriguing part of the OKC Thunder may have come to a screeching halt after three years with the team.

Polusevski saw action early and was an eyesore on both ends of the floor. The seven footer played just two minutes, missed both of his shot attempts, committed one turnover, and picked up two personal fouls.

He also hesitated on a wide-open three and looked far from who he was in the early parts of last season.

It’s possible that Aleksej Pokusevski was the most important two-way player for the OKC Thunder last season, at least in the first 20 games. His discipline on defense has been a shining beacon.

Aleksej Pokusevski blocks shots at the basket with timing, feel, and general finesse since he doesn’t have the frame to be physical inside inside.

Since his injuries, Pokusevski has become a shell of that version of himself. However, he is still ramping up from his pre-training-camp ankle injury. Things could take time for his game to fall into place this season.

With the OKC Thunder not extending Aleksej Pokusevski this offseason, and their history of not letting players hit Restricted Free Agency which he is staring down the barrel of this offseason, this is a pivotal year for the former first round pick.

While the early season struggles are eyebrow raising, the Oklahoma City Thunder big man needs a little more time to catch up to speed after missing all of training camp and the preseason. Though, it is getting late early.