After The Lightning: February 2009 Archives

No KidDing

By Carbert3 on February 28, 2009 3:00 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

After a strong performance last night in Dallas even with losing their star early in the game, the Thunder return to the site of their first road win of the year to take on the Memphis Grizzlies. Durant is not expected to play tonight and may also miss Monday's game at home against the Mavericks.

Both teams are struggling coming into tonight's matchup as the Grizzlies have lost 6 straight while OKC has lost 7. A win tonight would put the Thunder is good position to achieve their first three game win streak of the season as they have a rematch of last night's affair next on Monday and follow that up with a game against the weak Wizards on Wednesday. Both of those games will be at home.

Green and Westbrook will be looked upon to provide the offensive spark as they did last night, but hopefully we can get better than an 11 for 32 performance out of Russell. Granted he made the big 3 when the situation called for it to get the game into overtime, but the Thunder's poor 40.6% shooting from the field is why they didn't have the game put away in the first place.

Down but not Out

By gforce on February 28, 2009 3:59 AM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

Unable to close out the Mavericks, Oklahoma City is lucky to be leaving town with only a loss. Star Kevin Durant left in the first quarter with an ankle injury and will probably be held out against Memphis for precaution.

The Thunder held a 12-point lead in the fourth quarter before Dallas stormed all the way back. Only a dramatic Russell Westbrook trey forced the game into overtime where his counterpart at point guard took over. Jason Kidd did not score in regulation, but his ten points in the extra session put the home team ahead for good.

Poor shooting and no Durant spelled disaster for OKC down the stretch. There was no one to calm the young team down, and the Mavs forced multiple turnovers because of it. The Thunder proved they can play without KD, but it is not something they want to do for long.

Jeff Green took over the role of scorer, as he and Westbrook combined for 61 points. Green added 12 rebounds and made a number of big plays to answer Dirk Nowitzki. Dallas used another dominating performance by their All-Star (41 points, 9 rebounds) to off-set the lack of another scorer. Jason Terry is still out, and Josh Howard was in foul trouble most of the game.

The rest of the squad picked up the slack in KD's absence, and another road test is on the horizon. Coach Scott Brooks will have his hands full if Durant is sidelined for any length of time, but the Thunder has to focus on the things they can control.

As they kept up the pressure, OKC's defense was better for most of the game. Thabo Sefolosha gave Howard fits and nearly added his own double-double. Malik Rose made his team debut and brought energy to the group. Everyone will need to step up against Memphis, who didn't play Friday night.

Carbert will have the injury update on Durant in his Grizzlies preview, as the Thunder look to stop the losing streak before the schedule hits March.

Durant Out Early

By gforce on February 27, 2009 9:26 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

Oklahoma City just got news it didn't need. Kevin Durant turned an ankle in the first quarter and is out against Dallas. The X-Rays were negative, and the Thunder star is listed as day-to-day. OKC hung tight in the first quarter and is making a game of it right now.

What Better Time...

By gforce on February 27, 2009 7:16 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

The Thunder have a chance at ending multiple streaks in Dallas. Oklahoma City will need a big game by someone other than Kevin Durant to have a chance, as the Mavericks are sure to key in on the NBA's fourth leading scorer.

Dallas has dominated the series with the Thunder and is still in the playoff hunt. They have slipped up a few times over the past month, but the Mavericks play very well at home while OKC struggles on the road. The Thunder own three road victories this season and none would be bigger than tonight.

Thabo Sefolosha will have his hands full as will Jeff Green on the defensive end. Since the Mavs lost Jason Terry to a hand injury, Josh Howard has picked up his game. Howard will be Sefolosha's key responsibility, not an easy task. Green gets another shot at Dirk Nowitzki, as both players went wild the last time out.

While KD struggled down the stretch, Green tried his best to keep OKC in the game December 13th. The Thunder came close but fell 103-99 on the road, but it was mainly due to the star performance of Nowitzki. The German poured home 46 points and single-handedly took over after the visitors closed the gap.

OKC has eleven wins since then, and it will take a total team effort to stop Dallas. Ending the six-game slide is the goal but doing it against a Mavericks squad hungry for the post season would be even sweeter.

Building a Foundation

By gforce on February 27, 2009 1:25 AM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

After giving up nearly 400 points combined in the last three games, Oklahoma City has fallen back to its old ways. The team has no identity except for a certain swingman in the middle of a scoring title race. Kevin Durant is a huge building block, but the Thunder must do more the rest of this campaign and over the summer for it to matter.

Los Angeles exposed OKC's lack of defense and pulled away with a 107-93 win the last time out. The Lakers were the 12th team in a row to hang triple digits on the Thunder in losses dating back to early January. Only two contests remain in a brutal month that has yielded just two victories and a number of question marks along the way.

While needing a big boost, KD's crew will settle for snapping the losing streak ASAP. The momentum from after Christmas is gone and every defeat hurts the chances of Coach Brooks coming back next season. Joe Smith also doesn't factor into the future, but he still has a place on the roster. Those two together know what it takes to win in the NBA and have OKC on the right track.

GM Sam Presti desperately needs some size and toughness inside and will have the opportunity to add those pieces in June and July. That would help offset the talented wing players already on the roster and open up more scoring opportunities. What it will most importantly do can not be found on the score sheet but is just as necessary because right now the Thunder scare no one.

Durant is quickly becoming a top tier performer, but he can not do it alone. LeBron James was able to lead the Cavs to new heights but only after Cleveland went out and brought in help. OKC has the point guard of the future, and a potential starting center. The Tyson Chandler un-deal doesn't hurt as much if Nenad Krstic takes over the spot in the middle, and Thabo Sefolosha started in the backcourt against LA with very little practice time.

Looking in my crystal ball, I see two things now and two in the next year that would help change the culture of Thunder basketball. At least one will upset most fans, but I think that it is the biggest chance of turning things around sooner rather than never. The NBA Draft is rarely ever a sure thing, and it is better to use what you already have.

That is why Jeff Green and Nick Collison need to change roles. Green has the ability to score in bunches and play multiple positions on the court. On the other hand, Collison plays one spot well and needs to remain in that capacity to be effective. Moving Green to the sixth man job also opens up a nice starting spot for a certain lottery pick who gives OKC everything it could want from a rookie.

Blake Griffin is by no means a center, but his physical play is just what the Thunder desire inside. He can keep the opposition honest and offers a true presence that is currently lacking. Brooks has the ability to try it now with Collison and Krstic together on the floor instead of swapping each other out, but neither is the offensive threat that Griffin brings daily.

Keeping Green on the bench, the second squad next year could include Sefolosha, Collison, and Kyle Weaver -- all high energy guys. The other change for now involves letting Durant do what he showed during All-Star weekend. Not so much the trick shots maybe, but his play running the point during the Rookie game left me amazed.

I knew KD was extremely skilled, but that is another part of his arsenal that OKC has to use. Imagine a lineup with Durant and Thabo in the backcourt, Green and Collison up front and Krstic at center. No, that isn't a starting five but a look at the versatile nature of the Thunder and various options that are present.

With the league having to lower the salary cap, most free agents are going to be lucky to make a killing anymore. There are exceptions, however, as the 2010 launch of LeBron and D-Wade will prove. This makes the fourth and final request a vital one between now and the next trade deadline.

Both June draft picks may find it hard to find a place on the roster. One may be another foreign pick or could be playing down the road in Tulsa for awhile. The chances of getting another Weaver who sticks all year is just not that realistic, and the writing is on the wall for a deal. Earl Watson is a prime candidate as is one or both of the 2010 first-round picks given the right circumstances.

OKC can wait until after the draft before exploring a trade, but the best time to do it may end up being the same time. Griffin may or may not be there when the Thunder pick, but Chris Bosh will be. His stats make it unlikely for Toronto to keep him after one more All-Star season, and the Raptors have already explored the possibility of dealing him.

While Bosh may test the free agent waters, pairing him with Durant could be just the thing to put an identify with the franchise. The NBA gives the current team a greater chance of holding on to their players, and that means Bosh could make more by sticking in Oklahoma City. He would cost a bundle, but the Thunder would be making a wise investment.

Even if it costs multiple first-round picks, KD and Bosh together wouldn't need much more assistance in taking the Thunder to the playoffs. Russell Westbrook would have a field day picking apart defenses since more weapons are readily available to him. But the true reason for the deal wouldn't be felt for a couple of years.

Locking up a star player now leaves OKC the chance to get everything in order for when Mr. Durant gets to cash in his payday. Green is going to make plenty of money himself, but KD may have one or two scoring titles under his belt by then. If the Thunder have any hope of keeping their superstar, it all starts now.

No one in the state wants to think about it, but the rest of the league is waiting for the opportunity of wooing Durant. No amount of money will matter if the playoffs aren't a realistic goal, just ask Elton Brand. And unlike the Clippers, OKC has the means to get it done now. The only question left is how the Thunder uses the time given before it is too late.

No D-iggity, No D-oubt

By Carbert3 on February 24, 2009 4:00 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

Tonight the Thunder get their second chance at the NBA's top team, the Los Angeles Lakers. Last go-round was two weeks ago in LA, where OKC went down 98-105. Having another relatively close game against the Lakers would be huge for the Thunder as we've lost by 10 in three of our last four games.

The Thunder's big problem in the past few games has been a lack of defensive and getting sucked into playing the other team's style of game. While neither of those problems will likely be solved tonight, it would be nice to see a stronger defensive presense.

Yesterday's AtL entry focused on Thabo Sefolosha, and it would be nice to see a better performance than his 0 points, 5 foul performance from Saturday. Additionally, it'd be great if he'd refrain from injuring other members of the team.

The New Guy

By gforce on February 23, 2009 10:30 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

While Oklahoma City didn't make the flashy move most expected, they did pick up a valuable piece at the trade deadline. Chicago was in the process of shuffling guards, and the Thunder became the right team at the right time. Thabo Sefolosha now slides right into the spot Desmond Mason held before his injury and provides a defensive-minded athlete for OKC.

I bugged the crew over at Tremendous Upside Potential to get the scoop on the Thunder's newest guard and here is their take.

AtL:	You saw Thabo play on a regular basis -- what do you think his best role is?
TUP:	If Thabo is going to find a place in this league, the Thunder would seem to as good a fit for him as any team. His role is going to be as a defensive stopper on the wing. If you stick him on the opposing team's best offensive wing player, Thabo will usually do a pretty good job defending his man. He's super long and has good lateral quickness. His rookie year he went up against Kobe for an entire game and held him to something like 17 points. He just never found a place here in Chicago because the Bulls have a few guards who are more complete than he is, but I think he could be valuable to the Thunder.

AtL:	Can you envision him as a starting two-guard in the league?
TUP:	Maybe he could be for the Thunder because they have enough offensive firepower around him. Thabo looks smooth with the ball but he's actually very limited offensively. His last big contribution here in Chicago was throwing away an inbounds pass to blow a game against the Heat. I'll say this: he's not going to take any shots away from Durant. But maybe that's not such a bad thing. Good teams need guys to fill roles, and Thabo can hopefully develop into a quality defensive stopper.

AtL:	Long-term, is he the type of player who needs the ball to be successful?
TUP:	No. Do not pass him the ball. Strengths: Great height, good lateral quickness, tremendous wing span. Thabo has a chance to develop into a premier defensive stopper. He also sort of knows his role which is good. He's never going to chuck up a bunch of bad shots each night. Weakneses: He's a wing that can't really shoot or pass.

Sefolosha is well worth the draft pick in my opinion, and they added a player known for just what we needed. His opening game left quite a bit to be desired, but he does get Kobe tomorrow. The home fans will get to make the decision in a hurry, and here's hoping the Switzerland native gets nothing but cheers.

Big thanks to the guys at TUP for taking the time to answer my questions

Rookie Blues

By gforce on February 22, 2009 5:22 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

Now that I have your attention, Oklahoma City has not one but two first-year pros that are putting that theory to rest. Russell Westbrook and Kyle Weaver combined for 50 points in what may be the end of their starts together. Newcomer Thabo Sefolosha brings a much-desired defensive edge to the Thunder, and I will be previewing him tomorrow.

For now the story is Weaver, even if his starting days are numbered. A potential All-Rookie candidate, the current starting two guard put up a career-high 19 points in the loss to Golden State. Sam Presti may be under the gun currently, but his pick-up of Weaver before the season looks like a steal.

Weaver will only get better, and he should be able to learn more from the Switz player. And how far he comes as a sixth man gives a lot of hope to OKC for next year. His baptism by fire after Desmond Mason went down has been a success, no matter what the Thunder's record has done.

Offensive weapons are hard to come by, especially without having to break the bank. Weaver is not going anywhere soon, and that makes the upcoming draft that much easier for Presti. Look for the team to add pieces inside first since Weaver has proven to be a good fit in the back court, giving OKC another good reason to look forward to better times ahead.

One Month Ago ...

By Carbert3 on February 21, 2009 2:00 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

...OKC stormed into Oakland and handed the Warriors a 122-121 loss off of a buzzer-beater by Jeff Green. The Warriors were left with a sour taste in their mouths and their coach bitterly stated after the game that "it's as simple as [it] went down to the last second and a lucky shot beat us tonight, I don't believe [Green] called bank on the shot. I believe he shot it so poorly it went in. It was one of those shots."

It's time for the Thunder to make Don Nelson eat those words. OKC is 2-1 against the Warriors this season and a victory tonight will award the season series to the Thunder. The Warriors have been playing better as of late winning four of their last six. All those wins have come at home, but all have been against playoff-caliber teams. Their three losses in the month of February have come against the Spurs, Suns, and Lakers, and no one can fault them for any of those.

The Thunder, who got buried in Phoenix just last night, are going to need another high scoring performance. Last night's 118 only tops one of the last three performances by the Warriors. The 122 we put up against them a month ago is more in line with what OKC will need tonight. After last night's high energy game, the Thunder will have to dig deep to keep pace.

Woe on the Road

By gforce on February 21, 2009 7:43 AM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

The mark of any good team is how well they play away from home. Coming into this weekend, Oklahoma City just hopes to gain some momentum before hosting the Lakers on Tuesday. It will need to happen today because Phoenix didn't miss a beat without their best player in notching 140 points for the third straight contest.

Rallying in the third quarter, Kevin Durant's Thunder made a game of it before the Suns cruised down the stretch. A slow start doomed OKC while Phoenix deployed their 'Seven Second' offense flawlessly. When the Thunder were able to catch their breath, the deficit was up to 15 after quarter number one.

Both squads maintained a fast pace right up until halftime, combining for 75 points in the second alone. The Suns used their advantage wisely, weathering the barrage put forth by the visitors after halftime. Russell Westbrook and Nenad Krstic poured in 19 third quarter points, nearly matching the total by Phoenix.

It wouldn't be enough, however, as OKC fell to 3-23 away from the Ford Center. Carbert's prediction of 115 for the Thunder was right on the money, but nobody expected another massive showing by the determined Suns.

Let's Ruin Someone's Season

By Carbert3 on February 20, 2009 6:00 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

Now that the trading deadline has passed, the final third of the season is pretty much practice for next year for the Thunder. Time to get the future of the team more play time and more experience. The best opportunities for true experience will come in games against potential playoffs teams. Oklahoma City has very few wins against those caliber teams so far this season and desperately needs more if they wish to be a contender next year.

Tonight's game against the Suns is opportunity #1 for the Thunder. The West is down to 9 legitimate playoff contenders, and Phoenix is currently the team on the outside looking in. The Suns will be hampered in their efforts by the loss of Amare Stoudemire for the rest of the regular season. The Thunder can further frustrate the Suns by handing them a loss tonight and giving Phoenix something to think about during the post-season if they do indeed miss the playoffs.

The two teams have clashed twice this season: both times at the Ford Center. The first was a heartbreaking loss for the Thunder as we lost 99-98 after leading for much of the game. The second game was a close game throughout with the Suns leading most of the way with the final score ending 110-102.

The Suns are averaging an astounding 141 points per game following the All-Star break, but both of those games have been against the Clippers. Amare averaged 32.5 points in those games and without him; it's unlikely the Suns would have put up as many. Regardless, OKC had better shown up ready to put points on the board tonight as we're likely going to need more than 115 if we want to win this one.

Waiting Game

By gforce on February 20, 2009 6:54 AM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

The hype was gone even before the trade passed. With no big moves left, Oklahoma City settled for a couple of minor deals. The Thunder added two players with only one figuring to have an impact on the rotation.

Hopefully Sam Presti has a bigger plan, because Malik Rose is definitely not the answer at center. Rose comes over from the Knicks for Chris Wilcox in a ?? huh ?? kind of trade. Unless it was all about getting money back, the verdict is still out on this.

Other OKC blogs are taking a harder approach and calling Presti out. I understand their logic but will wait to see how the next few weeks shake out. If Rose stays and takes over the Smith veteran role, I am good with that. What I don't want is other players to lose out on minutes for no real reason, and that could be the reason Sene was waived as well.

The rotation received a nice boost with the key maneuver of the day. Chicago basically gave up on Thabo Sefolosha, and the Thunder were waiting with open arms. It did cost a first-round pick in the process, but the chance to add a potential starter was well worth it.

Sefolosha didn't have a spot on the Bulls. He will find the exact opposite situation in OKC, where he can replace Kyle Weaver as the defensive guard needed. If Coach Brooks prefers to work him in slowly, the Switzerland native can spell KD to keep him fresh.

All in all this should be a no-lose situation for the Thunder. They added depth without giving up the two higher picks in June's draft and will have a better feeling for what is needed next year. The roster looks much different than it did to start the season, but the next few weeks will tell if that is a good thing or not. I am not a betting man, but my money would go on the new OKC squad if I was.

Broken News

By gforce on February 19, 2009 12:48 AM 1 0 Vote 0 Votes

Tyson Chandler is still a Hornet. Yahoo! just broke my heart....I think. Trading for an injured player never makes sense. Not in any sport.

Once my shock wears off, I will be able to look at this more clearly. Joe Smith will be welcomed back with open arms -- right before he is traded to another contender. Chris Wilcox, on the other hand, may find the reunion difficult. He was looking forward to changing his address, and there are not very many places for him to be dealt.

Oklahoma City now finds itself in scramble mode. The rumored deals have mostly been completed, and time is running out to find a partner. GM Sam Presti is officially behind the eight ball with the NBA wondering if he has any more tricks on display.

The Thunder do not play until Friday, but the real story will be who the starting five are when they take the court.

Take Your Pick

By gforce on February 18, 2009 2:49 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

Heartbreak Hotel or Hotel California?

Either one is my pick for the new name of the Thunder's home court. Oklahoma City currently plays at the Ford Center but after losing again on the final play, the nickname has to change.

Kevin Durant did everything possible to get the game to overtime, and his 3-pointer tied the score at 98. On the night the two teams traded post players, it was the littlest Hornet who did in the Thunder. Chris Paul played through pain and broke through for a lay-up that gave New Orleans the victory.

Feeding off of All-Star weekend, Duran't career-high 47 points were not enough. The lack of interior defense can not be blamed on KD, and new center Tyson Chandler will be a welcome addition. That will allow Nick Collison to return to the four, where he is more comfortable and can bring his energy game off the bench.

The trade winds are still blowing, as OKC has more potential targets in Earl Watson and pick a bench post player (Swift takers...anyone). While the deadline is tomorrow, the team that takes the floor next season will look significantly different. And that is a very good thing if it stops losses from last night from happening.

He Does It Again!

By gforce on February 17, 2009 4:47 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

Sam Presti must have known how hard this season would be, but he sure is doing quite a bit to prove us all wrong. The GM pulled off another feat today, dealing three seldom used parts for the potential center of the next decade.

The 26-year old Tyson Chandler becomes a 'vet' when paired with the Durant, Green, and Westbrook, but the legitimate center falls into place perfectly in Oklahoma City. Too bad we won't see him tonight, as the deal most likely needs a day or two to get finalized.

Back to Business

By Carbert3 on February 17, 2009 11:00 AM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

The last time the Hornets visited Oklahoma City, the Thunder were struggling at 1-11, in the midst of what would become a 14 game losing streak, and after getting blown out by New Orleans, management fired the coach P.J. Carlesimo. The team that the Hornets will take on tonight is drastically different than the one that they owned in back-to-back games in November.

The Hornets had been having a rough time in the games leading up to the All-Star break losing 6 of 8. New Orleans was hampered by injuries during that timeframe, but most of the key personal are now back. There are still some questions marks as to whether Tyson Chandler and Morris Peterson will be back tonight.

The Hornets will likely put up triple digits in this game, but I don't think it'll be as high as the 109 they had last time and maybe not the 105 in the game before that. Something like 102 seems more likely. OKC needs to set their sights on scoring more than that preferably with a 27+ point first quarter.

KD is King

By gforce on February 14, 2009 10:11 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

What a weekend!

Today's competition proved without a doubt that All-Star Weekend needs more Durant!

H-O-R-S-E started out with a rusty Kevin Durant missing multiple shots and falling way behind. He was in danger of being knocked out early and needed a couple of clutch shots to stay in the contest.

From there on, however, NBA Jam could have used Durant's shooting touch. While not able to make flashy lay-ups early, it was a behind the backboard bounce that got him started. KD used his length to make the trick shot look easy and then proceeded to hold a long-range clinic.

After Joe Johnson was eliminated first, it left Durant against potential Rookie of the Year candidate O.J. Mayo. Mayo had a big lead but Durant drew first blood and never looked back. KD picked his shots and again made sure everyone knew that sophomores rule freshman.

Now the only thing missing is an appearance tomorrow against the rest of the league elite. It is a shame given how much Oklahoma City has improved this season, and Durant is the main reason for it. I know he will have plenty of opportunities in the years to come, but if anyone is deserving of an exception -- Thunder star #35 is the only answer.

Break Time

By gforce on February 13, 2009 6:34 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

A tired squad had their work cut out for them up in Portland, and the home team was looking for payback. It all added up to a struggle that Oklahoma City could not overcome. The Trail Blazers held on for a 102-93 victory, sending the Thunder to the All-Star break with 40 losses.

One night after a tough loss against the NBA's best team, OKC followed it up in probably the hardest place to play. Kevin Duran't string of 30+ scoring came to an end, and Portland controlled the boards. It was a disappointing end to the 'first half' of the season as the Thunder fell to 2-4 on the month.

Rookie Russell Westbrook paced the club with 21 points, and Jeff Green added 17. A less than forty percent shooting night doomed the visitors who remained competitive early but ran out of gas in the fourth. All three players from the 'Holy Trinity' as some are calling them will get a rest -- only not as much as the rest of the Thunder.

That is because all three were in action tonight for the Rookie/Soph game that opened up All-Star Weekend. Durant recovered from his off night in a big way, cruising to an event record 46 points. KD and Green now own bragging rights over Westbrook after the Sophs won by six.

Durant will be back Saturday for the first ever H.O.R.S.E. event, and the fans were trying to get Westbrook in the dunk contest. Carbert and I will be back with all the action.

Nothing is Ever Easy

By gforce on February 11, 2009 1:24 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

Things are going from bad to worse tonight, and I am going to wait to pass judgment on the first half of a brutal road trip. Oklahoma City played well in stretches but couldn't knock down the shots needed to stay with the Lakers.

The Thunder fought back a number of times, but Kobe and his supporting cast were too much. The seven point loss hurts, but the learning experience for OKC makes up for it. Kevin Durant poured home another 30-point effort, and Russell Westbrook had another near triple-double.

Finally having a solid second half, the Thunder did not look intimidated by LA. The Lakers did dominate inside, winning the rebounding battle and blowing out the visitors with multiple post threats.

Round 2

By Carbert3 on February 11, 2009 10:00 AM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

February must be deja vu month. We just played the Trail Blazers less than a week ago. We played against the Kings twice in period of eight games. And we'll be playing the Lakers (sigh) again in two weeks.

At least in the case with the Kings, the second game gave us the opportunity to get the win we should have gotten in the first match up. Tonight's game will have the Blazers coming out hot looking to not get embarrassed by losing to the Thunder again.

In last week's game, OKC won the war of the rebound and that helped lead the way to victory. Winning on the boards again tonight to go a long way to gaining the repeat win. In addition, Portland really had no answer for Durant. If that is the case again tonight, the Thunder should run away with this one.

The Thunder are coming off of a strong game against the Lakers, still a loss, but a good effort overall. The team will need the same energy tonight. Often this season, the Thunder have put on lackluster performances on the second game of a back-to-back series on the road. Tonight's game is a good opportunity to show that will no longer be the trend.

To Be the Best ... You Have to Beat the Best

By Carbert3 on February 10, 2009 5:00 AM 2 0 Vote 0 Votes

Of course, even if the Thunder beat the Lakers tonight, that would by no means make us the best. Rather, tonight's game should be a good indicator of OKC's progression out of the bottom rung of NBA teams.

For sake of argument, we'll consider the NBA teams to fall in one of the following categories: top five, 6-10, 11-15, 16-20, 21-25, and bottom five. Looking at the season as a whole, it's hard to argue that the Thunder wouldn't belong in the bottom five. Up until a few weeks ago, we still had the worst record. Looking at just the here and now or even 2009 (pretty much the same yes, but still), the argument is there that OKC is in the 21-25 and has the potential to move into the 16-20. Getting into that grouping by the end of the year is where the team should strive to be as it will make us playoff hopefuls for next season.

And now I've rambled on without really saying much about tonight's game. Kobe is probable for tonight's game after battling the flu for the past few games. Regardless, the Thunder are most likely going to lose. Our hope here, really, is to not get blown out. Losing by single digits would be a very respectable outcome.

As a side note, gforce has informed me that Kevin Durant will be part of the H.O.R.S.E. event at All Star weekend. For you poker fans out there, this is not same thing as the H.O.R.S.E. event in the World Series of Poker. Durant will be taking on O.J. Mayo and Joe Johnson and is the favorite to win in my humble opinion.

Identity Crisis

By gforce on February 9, 2009 12:16 AM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

Finding a consistent lineup seems to be one of the hardest things to do in the NBA. Oklahoma City may still be a work in progress, but they are figuring out that less is more. The Thunder played eight against Sacramento and didn't panic down the stretch before pulling out the 116-113 victory.

Kevin Durant was unstoppable against the Kings, playing basically one-on-five during stretches of the second half. OKC couldn't hold a 19-point second quarter lead and gave the visitors every opportunity to tie or win the game down the stretch. Durant's performance negated the three 20+ scorers by Sacramento, a problem the Thunder have had in the past.

Giving their star plenty of support, seven who saw action contributed at least nine points on the night. Nenad Krstic powered the effort off the bench with 14 points, a good sign after he missed the last game. Everyone is going to need to step up with four of the next five contests coming away from the Ford Center.

Nick Collison and Jeff Green had their moments with 15 points apiece, but Durant gave the Kings more than they could handle. When Sacramento was making their run in the third quarter, Durant poured in basket after basket. He played a game of 'top this' with Beno Udrih during the second half, never backing down as the lead dwindled.

Most importantly, Durant added nine more in the fourth to finish with a game-high 39. He has to be in consideration for an All-Star nod should someone be unable to make the trip to Phoenix and is on a string of four consecutive 30-point outings.

The only problem is that the rotation is fluid at best, with Chucky Atkins and Chris Wilcox again not playing. They are both veterans and familiar with the routine, but reps are needed to make a difference when needed. Coach Brooks has the ear of his players, and they play hard the entire 48 minutes for him.

My question is how well will the bench play night after night if some of the key reserves are rusty? Right now it isn't an issue, and victories make everything better. I do hope the answers come quickly, however, with the trade deadline right around the corner.

Because if a few of the OKC vets are traded, the young nucleus will be looking for help from new faces, never an easy thing to do half-way into a season.

Let's Try this Again ...

By Carbert3 on February 8, 2009 1:00 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

I've got some good news and some bad news. The good news is that we get to play the Kings, one of the weaker teams in the league, today. The bad news is that we lost to these guys a week ago and we've been having a hard time beating teams in the lower rung of the league. Last week's game was in Sacramento and went into overtime so hopefully the change of venue will result in a change in outcome.

The Thunder's last two games have been impressive. Once again, we almost defeated the division leading Nuggets, and then we took it to the Northwest's #2 team. Based on those two games, there is no good reason why we shouldn't beat the Pacific's worst team. Other than our seemingly inability to play better than our opponent's level.

The Kings are 1-10 in their last eleven games, and OKC is all too aware of whom that "1" is. Another loss to the Kings before heading out west to take on the Lakers and the Trail Blazers is not something the Thunder will want over their heads heading into the All Star break.

A week ago, we got little help from the bench. If the team can reverse that stat today, we will see a Thunder victory. 20 points from the reverses ought to be enough to do it.

Future Rivals

By gforce on February 7, 2009 11:43 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

Much as I think Denver could become the true test for Oklahoma City, the NBA still wants the Trail Blazers as the potential Thunder target. This has nothing to do with the play of the teams, just the contributions of two young pros. As carbert touched on in his preview, Portland's Greg Oden and OKC's Kevin Durant are the dynamic duo the league wants to ride into the next decade.

The only problem with that logic is that so far only half of the tandem is living up to his billing. Durant's big effort propelled the Thunder to a huge 102-93 division win and further proved his worth as the No. 2 pick of the 2007 Draft. On the other hand, Oden made only one basket and finished with four points and two rebounds -- hardly the effort the first overall pick of the same draft wanted.

OKC was without Nenad Krstic, still won the rebounding battle, and showed everyone the type of effort that has the basketball world buzzing. The victory over Portland, currently the fifth best team in the Western Conference, ended a three game Thunder skid. It was also the first win of the month, a crucial stat given the stacked schedule ahead.

Finishing with 31 points and zero turnovers, Durant dominated on his home court in the first match-up of the top picks. He doesn't have to wait long, as the two teams meet in Portland next week. Could he also have some more help inside for the next battle?

Rumors are flying about Phoenix trading All-Star Amare Stoudemire, and OKC is said to be in the discussions. Jeff Green would be the centerpiece of the deal, as would veteran Joe Smith's expiring contract. Smith helped his trade value by filling in for Krstic against the Blazers and is a much-wanted commodity.

The inside-outside scoring punch of Durant/Stoudemire plus the play-making ability of Russell Westbrook has people talking, but the deal is far from happening. One thing is for certain, however, and that is the play of Durant. He proved yet again on Friday that he should be an All-Star, and that motivation will carry the Thunder as far as they can go.

Durant v Oden, Round 1

By Carbert3 on February 6, 2009 11:00 AM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

In the Thunder's game tonight against the Trail Blazers, the world will finally get to see the highly anticipated match up between the #1 and #2 players from the 2007 draft. Oden was #1 that night, but so far Durant had proved to be the more valuable player. Look for Durant to continue to demonstrate to the Trail Blazers what they're missing out on by taking Oden instead.

Both teams are coming off of disappointing losses. The Thunder lost for the second time against the Nuggets off of a game winning shot by Carmelo Anthony. Portland had their five game win streak snapped by the Mavericks mostly the result of a lackluster second quarter.

The big challenge tonight for the Thunder will be rebounding. A big part of OKC's game comes from creating extra opportunities by out-rebounding their opponents. The Blazers have a similiar MO, and it will be a battle to see who comes out on top in this regard. If the Thunder get out-rebounded, they won't win.

I forsee this game being lower scoring than the last couple with the winner scoring in the mid-to-upper 90s. After the last two nail biters going the wrong way, the Thunder are overdue to win a close one.

Golden Opportunity

By Carbert3 on February 4, 2009 8:00 AM 1 0 Vote 0 Votes

After two days off to stew about their disappointing loss to the Kings, the Thunder play host to the Nuggets tonight. The two teams battled in Oklahoma City just a little over a month ago, and the Nuggets stole the win with 0.1 second remaining off of a Carmelo Anthony three. Tonight's game will likely be more challenging for the Thunder especially without the defensive talents of Mason.

The Thunder are going to need big games again from the core three, but Green and Westbrook have struggled to produce big games back-to-back. In addition, a few other players on the team are going to have to step up. With the performances that Durant, Green, and Westbrook had on Sunday, it's ridiculous that we lost. Of the rest of the team, only Collison showed his worth.

Tonight's game will set the tone for the next week up until the All-Star break. If we can keep it close against the Nuggets and play strong all four quarters, I could OKC stealing one of the two games against Portland and definitely beating the Kings in the rematch in Oklahoma City. If we get blown out tonight, then the All-Star break won't be able to get here soon enough.

Now What?

By gforce on February 3, 2009 9:55 PM 0 0 Vote 0 Votes

February loomed as a rough month back in October, and it didn't start off well for the boys in Blue and Orange. Oklahoma City stumbled against a lackluster Sacramento squad and fell on the road in overtime. The Kings brought their 'A' game while the Thunder score an 'F' for effort and lack of defense.

The 122-118 setback largely proved how far OKC still has to grow, and the upcoming schedule gets no easier. I had hoped waiting an extra day would allow for the Thunder to make a roster move, but that was not the case. And the other part of the equation may be that there just are not very many defensive-minded guards out there for the picking.

On the postitive side, all three OKC players heading to All-Star weekend exploded against Sacramento. Russell Westbrook, Kevin Durant, and Jeff Green accounted for 95 of the 118 points. Green's put-back of his own missed free throw sent the contest to an extra period, but the Kings ruled the tempo of OT.

Game 2 without Desmond Mason exposed a big hole, as Kevin Martin scored virtually at will against multiple Thunder defenders. Rookie Kyle Weaver drew the unenviable task of trying to stop Martin and was over-matched. No one else on the OKC roster had any better luck, and the end result was Sacramento's 11th victory on the year.

That ties the Kings with the Thunder in the win column and the race (?) for the most ping pong balls is heating up in a hurry. The Clippers and Wizards have ten wins apiece, and the Grizzlies lead the pack with 12. Anything can happen in the final 2+ months of the season, and OKC would much rather take the chance out of the equation.

But with the playoff-type schedule the rest of this month, the Thunder could use a couple of breaks to fall their way.

Super Bowl Sunday

By Carbert3 on February 1, 2009 11:00 AM 1 0 Vote 0 Votes

As you know, this weekend is a big one for sports: Georges St. Pierre and B.J. Penn rematched for the UFC welterweight title last night, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal played in the Australian Open overnight, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals will battle for the Super Bowl crown this evening, and the Oklahoma City Thunder visit the Sacramento King this afternoon. Ok, so maybe the Thunder/Kings game doesn't belong with those others, but it's a big game for the two teams involved.

The Thunder are coming off of a drumming by the Utah Jazz and need to prove that they can win the easy ones. In the past week and a half, they lost to the Clippers and needed overtime to defeat the Grizzlies. Neither of those outcomes would be acceptable today (ok, an overtime win would be acceptable but very disappointing).

The Kings have lost 8 straight coming into this game, 20 of their last 23, and are making a very strong case for being the worst team in the NBA. Sacramento hasn't lost 9 games in a row since 1998. Unlike OKC, this team shows little promise for future success and has a long rebuilding process ahead of it.

This game comes down to motivation, and I feel like the Thunder will have it while the Kings not so much. I see Oklahoma City cruising to a 111-103 victory.

February 2009 Archives