OKC Thunder 2013 - 2014

[clz46]

Just as a small reminder that one of our "bench" players, Jackson, was playing on the first team this round. He usually does score a few points as the 2nd team PG.

[boitoirich]

San Antonio definitely trusted their bench to get the job done, whereas we threw guys in sheepishly. Role players for the Spurs knew exactly what was expected of them in their time on the court and played accordingly. We put in guys and just kind of said, "Try to make something happen, will you?" That's where not having any kind of half-court offense really hurts us. Superstars like KD and Russ can get off on any given night and win you some games; role players need exactly that -- a role to play.

[Laramie]

Although I think Boozer would be a nice fit (moving Serge to the 5) there are a couple of holes in your theory:

1. Butler is a FA as of this morning.
2. Sefolosha is a FA as of this morning.
3. Perkins is a C and the Bulls have no need for both Perkins and Noah.

Good point!

Perkins wouldn't be welcome in Chicago.

You recall when Sefolosha brought Joakim Noah into the Thunder's locker room:

Joakim Noah and Kendrick Perkins exchanged words in Thunder locker room.

They just let anybody in the locker room?” Perkins asked Noah, according to The Oklahoman. After Noah volunteered to leave if his presence was unwanted, Perkins replied: “Get your a– up out of here.”

Kendrick Perkins tells Joakim Noah to 'get your a-- up out' of Thunder locker room | The Point Forward - SI.com

"Oklahoma City looks oh-so pretty... ...as I get my kicks on Route 66." --Nat King Cole.

[Stan Silliman]

Good point!

Perkins wouldn't be welcome in Chicago.

You recall when Sefolosha brought Joakim Noah into the Thunder's locker room:

Joakim Noah and Kendrick Perkins exchanged words in Thunder locker room.

They just let anybody in the locker room?” Perkins asked Noah, according to The Oklahoman. After Noah volunteered to leave if his presence was unwanted, Perkins replied: “Get your a– up out of here.”

Kendrick Perkins tells Joakim Noah to 'get your a-- up out' of Thunder locker room | The Point Forward - SI.com

"Oklahoma City looks oh-so pretty... ...as I get my kicks on Route 66." --Nat King Cole.

Thibs was crazy about Perkins in Boston. I think that little dust up was just for show.

[Urbanized]

I don't know if it was as much for show as it was an old-school move. Perkins works hard to cultivate the us-against-them team mentality and doesn't go for the new-age buddy-buddy hugs after games and say-sweet-things-in-post-game-interviews stuff that's so pervasive in the league these days. He's not in it to make friends. I didn't take that as anything personal with Noah or Chicago; it was just snarling protect-this-house attitude.

I should be paid by the hyphen for that post.

[BoulderSooner]

There is almost no chance that brooks gets fired. It is not his fault that we didn't box out and that we had too many turnovers against the best team in the league.

Perk will also be back.

We have the full mid level to offer as well as the bi annual and 2 draft picks.

[SoonerDave]

The bench for OKC will necessarily look a lot different next year.

The most telling stat I saw regarding game 6 was bench points: SA 51, OKC 5.

Yikes.

I think the way the OKC bench was constructed is reflective of the way OKC's offense is designed - its very much oriented to getting KD and RW their looks, getting into gaps and spacing, with someone like an Ibaka as an "extra option." I don't know enough about bkb to say that's bad or good, it's just the way it is as best I can tell. Since there is really no formal system, eg they don't really run the "XYZ" offense, you get a bench of role players. And that's zactly what OKC has.

I think, in contrast, SA relies on their system. Ball movement. Structure. Move the ball around enough times with enough speed because you trust that system, and you know someone is going to get open, someone will blow a defensive assignment. It's a system that has allowed a bunch of guys to contend for an NBA title/division for a lot of years. Their reliance on the structure of their system is one of the reasons Pop didn't even bother trying to recompete in Game 4 when OKC got on a roll and out-everything SA - Popovich wasn't going to waste energy or minutes trying to get his athletes to "out-athlete" OKC's best. He didn't need to. He was willing to live or die by his system, and he won.

I don't know how much formal offensive structure you can insinuate into what OKC does. I heard someone mention whether KD should develop some sort of low-post presence, but if he does, does that take away opportunities for those little off-the-key floaters he tosses up? Is RW really still RW if he's following a more heavily structured offensive system? Don't know. Others who know bkb better than I do will have to answer that one.

Best I can see is that we try to get at least one more solid, two-way player, someone hopefully with some post presence to give what OKC does run some additional options. I, personally, am hoping against hope SA wins the whole thing now, because I think if they do, a lot of their senior players will hang it up

Just have to see how next year unfolds, I s'pose.

[Stan Silliman]

The bench for OKC will necessarily look a lot different next year.

The most telling stat I saw regarding game 6 was bench points: SA 51, OKC 5.

Yikes.

I think the way the OKC bench was constructed is reflective of the way OKC's offense is designed - its very much oriented to getting KD and RW their looks, getting into gaps and spacing, with someone like an Ibaka as an "extra option." I don't know enough about bkb to say that's bad or good, it's just the way it is as best I can tell. Since there is really no formal system, eg they don't really run the "XYZ" offense, you get a bench of role players. And that's zactly what OKC has.

I think, in contrast, SA relies on their system. Ball movement. Structure. Move the ball around enough times with enough speed because you trust that system, and you know someone is going to get open, someone will blow a defensive assignment. It's a system that has allowed a bunch of guys to contend for an NBA title/division for a lot of years. Their reliance on the structure of their system is one of the reasons Pop didn't even bother trying to recompete in Game 4 when OKC got on a roll and out-everything SA - Popovich wasn't going to waste energy or minutes trying to get his athletes to "out-athlete" OKC's best. He didn't need to. He was willing to live or die by his system, and he won.

I don't know how much formal offensive structure you can insinuate into what OKC does. I heard someone mention whether KD should develop some sort of low-post presence, but if he does, does that take away opportunities for those little off-the-key floaters he tosses up? Is RW really still RW if he's following a more heavily structured offensive system? Don't know. Others who know bkb better than I do will have to answer that one.

Best I can see is that we try to get at least one more solid, two-way player, someone hopefully with some post presence to give what OKC does run some additional options. I, personally, am hoping against hope SA wins the whole thing now, because I think if they do, a lot of their senior players will hang it up

Just have to see how next year unfolds, I s'pose.

This is a very well reasoned reply.
We are not a back to the basket or run an offense through the center team.
Memphis is, the Clippers are, Trailblazers are, and somewhat the Spurs are.
The Heat, for most of their plays are not and we are not.
We take advantage of the mobility and the special skills of our superstars.

With that comes the exposure of our weaknesses, which is mainly Durant has
certain strength issues and at times, our offense, because the players are not
in constant motion, becomes stagnant.

If Durant developed a low post presence like LeBron or Carmelo, they'd quit guarding
him with little guys and he'd quit getting the ball stripped.

Russell Westbrook is a fantastic point guard. Three triple doubles in the playoffs? And,
he's still learning. If Russ had a reliable non-Perk center and/or a JJ Redick outside shooter
he'd average 11 assists per game. Hopefully, Steven Adams will develop like I think to be
the "Lob City" equivalent of DeAndre Jordan. Adams is already a better passer.

[dankrutka]

I think Mark Stein is right on most of his points: Summer Scoop: Thunder's road ahead - Marc Stein Blog - ESPN

I don't see the Thunder making any big moves, but you never know with Presti. The Thunder have a decent number of okay assets (PJ3, Lamb, Roberson, two 1st round picks), but I really think the team just needs to add a more consistent two-way bench player that can hit 3s and space the floor. Ideally, the Thunder can land a vet chasing a ring on a minimum deal. They could just re-sign Caron Butler who was good in the regular season, but largely disappeared in the playoffs. However, any vet takes away minutes from any of the young guys getting the experience needed to develop. It's very possible the Thunder stand pat until the trade deadline in the spring and make a move then if necessary.

[s00nr1]

Aaron Afflalo.

[dankrutka]

Aaron Afflalo.

He would be ideal. He's a great 3 point shooter and a pretty good all around player. But... he doesn't fit in financially unless (a) we trade/don't re-sign someone like Reggie or (b) plan on going way over the tax (not happening), right? Or is the tax line rising enough that we could get creative and get under it with him? Orlando's GM is Rob Hennigan, who came up in the Thunder organization. Maybe he'd take a young player (PJ3 or Lamb) and a 2-3 draft picks for him. He has 7.3 million due to him next season with a player option for the season after. He might choose to turn down his player option because he's underpaid currently. He's on a relatively cheap contract considering his production. Man, he could be the missing piece. I'd love to see it.

[dankrutka]

I'm no basketball expert; there are certainly many on this thread that know a lot more than I do (meant sincerely, not sarcastically). What pleases me is NOT seeing on the news today cars being overturned and burning, windows smashed, etc. I hope and pray you never turn into that kind of a "big league" city.

Is this a joke or serious? Honestly asking because I can't remember one time an NBA team was eliminated from the playoffs resulted in anything close to what you're describing. Do you have even one example?

[Laramie]

I'm no basketball expert; there are certainly many on this thread that know a lot more than I do (meant sincerely, not sarcastically). What pleases me is NOT seeing on the news today cars being overturned and burning, windows smashed, etc. I hope and pray you never turn into that kind of a "big league" city.

We're in the infancy stages of a 'Big League City'.

One of the finder qualities that brought me back to Oklahoma City was the sincere heart and hospitality of her people (true friendships). Oklahoma City is a jewel of a city; she doesn't attempt to attract attention nor does she act a fool. OKC doesn't tolerate foolishness!

"Oklahoma City looks oh-so pretty... ...as I get my kicks on Route 66." --Nat King Cole.

[Anonymous.]

Is this a joke or serious? Honestly asking because I can't remember one time an NBA team was eliminated from the playoffs resulted in anything close to what you're describing. Do you have even one example?

He must think every city is full of Vancouver hockey fans.

[Laramie]

Thibs was crazy about Perkins in Boston. I think that little dust up was just for show.

Seriously Stan, Who in the 'hell' is Thibs?

You know that Perkins sometimes comes off as somewhat of a bully. Must admit, he has yet to back down or blink!

His opponents probably will never know and they are not to testy to challenge him to find out. Perkins has learned how to play 'big bad wolf with his opponents.' His bark is probably more lethal than his bite. If looks could kill ; then you don't want to mess with Kendrick Perkins. He stared down Memphis' Mighty Jo Z-Bo and sent Tayshaun Prince walking in the other direction.

The Thunder needed an 'enforcer' on the team and Kendrick Perkins is the perfect mold for that role character. He does need to step up his game and become more of a threat under the basket. Since his injury, it doesn't appear that he can jump 6 inches off the ground.

Trending: Fisher to coach Knicks or Lakers?

Sources: Lakers cool on Derek Fisher, who is Knicks' top head-coaching target

Y! SPORTS

"Oklahoma City looks oh-so pretty... ...as I get my kicks on Route 66." --Nat King Cole.

[dankrutka]

Thibs = Tom Thibodeau, coach of the Bulls and former Celtics assistant

[Bellaboo]

I'm no basketball expert; there are certainly many on this thread that know a lot more than I do (meant sincerely, not sarcastically). What pleases me is NOT seeing on the news today cars being overturned and burning, windows smashed, etc. I hope and pray you never turn into that kind of a "big league" city.

Please tell when this has happened in an NBA series loss ? I can think of some college students going nuts and acting this way during the NCAA Playoffs (usually with a little liquid courage), but not in the NBA ???

[Stan Silliman]

Seriously Stan, Who in the 'hell' is Thibs?

You know that Perkins sometimes comes off as somewhat of a bully. Must admit, he has yet to back down or blink!

His opponents probably will never know and they are not to testy to challenge him to find out. Perkins has learned how to play 'big bad wolf with his opponents.' His bark is probably more lethal than his bite. If looks could kill ; then you don't want to mess with Kendrick Perkins. He stared down Memphis' Mighty Jo Z-Bo and sent Tayshaun Prince walking in the other direction.

The Thunder needed an 'enforcer' on the team and Kendrick Perkins is the perfect mold for that role character. He does need to step up his game and become more of a threat under the basket. Since his injury, it doesn't appear that he can jump 6 inches off the ground.

Trending: Fisher to coach Knicks or Lakers?

Sources: Lakers cool on Derek Fisher, who is Knicks' top head-coaching target

Y! SPORTS

"Oklahoma City looks oh-so pretty... ...as I get my kicks on Route 66." --Nat King Cole.

Against back to the basket players, Perkins has value. But not what we're playing, on a minutes basis. If we could somehow trade Perkins for Boozer we'd have an enforcer with offensive moves.

[Laramie]

Against back to the basket players, Perkins has value. But not what we're playing, on a minutes basis. If we could somehow trade Perkins for Boozer we'd have an enforcer with offensive moves.

Boozer? Nah!

You're going to need something stronger than coffee to get that deal done. Boozer is making more than Ibaka...

Kendrick Perkins ($8,727,437) Oklahoma City Thunder 2014 Team Roster - ESPN
Carlos Boozer ($15,300,000) Chicago Bulls 2014 Team Roster - ESPN

Greivis Vasquez ($2,150,188 - Toronto)? Would make a good backup point guard. Move Westbrook over to the 2 (Shooting guard). He is familiar with Kevin Durant (both played for Montrose Christian School, D.C. area).

"Oklahoma City looks oh-so pretty... ...as I get my kicks on Route 66." --Nat King Cole.

[dankrutka]

Boozer makes $16.3 million next season... No thanks. That's just an absolutely awful contract for a player that's really deteriorated.

[Stan Silliman]

Would you trade him for the son of a pro boxer - Marcin Gortat - who makes $ 7.7 million? Or do you think Gortat lacks the enforcer type physique?

[BoulderSooner]

Stop trying to move Russ to the 2. He is close to being the best pg in the league

[Urbanized]

Geez no kidding. Enough already.

[Teo9969]

He would be ideal. He's a great 3 point shooter and a pretty good all around player. But... he doesn't fit in financially unless (a) we trade/don't re-sign someone like Reggie or (b) plan on going way over the tax (not happening), right? Or is the tax line rising enough that we could get creative and get under it with him? Orlando's GM is Rob Hennigan, who came up in the Thunder organization. Maybe he'd take a young player (PJ3 or Lamb) and a 2-3 draft picks for him. He has 7.3 million due to him next season with a player option for the season after. He might choose to turn down his player option because he's underpaid currently. He's on a relatively cheap contract considering his production. Man, he could be the missing piece. I'd love to see it.

Would rather push for Avery Bradley. He just finished his Rookie contract with Boston, and they're looking to totally revamp the team. I bet they'll let him walk if they don't get a really good deal on him. The dude plays great defense and can also create his own shot. Literally exactly what we need at the 2…and he's young.

Only down-side is his injury history.

[Laramie]

Stop trying to move Russ to the 2. He is close to being the best pg in the league

He's my favorite Thunder player; however he doesn't play like a true point guard. The advantage you would have moving Westbrook to the shooting guard (two); he can attack from the left or the right side of the court. He and K. D. can give you that balance from any side of the court. Russell is a great passer, he doesn't like to distribute. His biggest weakness is driving into a trap and then trying to pass the ball back out or cross zone; this results in wild shots or turnovers which allows the opponents to fast break.

Thabo [$3.9 million*] played great defense; but let's face it, he's not a two.

If Russ maintains consistent play; yes, he would be the best point guard in the league. Russell Westbrook sometimes can be as 'bull headed' as any player can get (unpredictable). When Russell Westbrook is hitting on all cylinders; the Thunder looks great--when Westbrook is out-of-control; the Thunder looks bad.

[*$2.2 million]? Greivis Vasquez (Age 27) 6'6" 211lbs., would make a good point guard/shooting guard or back up.
2014 Toronto - Stats: 9.6 PPG, 85% Free Throws, 2.2 Rebounds, 4.5 Assists Per Game.

Greivis Vasquez Stats - Toronto Raptors - ESPN

Toronto Raptors 2014 Team Roster - ESPN

Vasquez (6'6") is not afraid to shoot or drive the ball to the basket. You could probably sign this guy for $2.5 - $3.0 million. Get this guy while he is available.

"Oklahoma City looks oh-so pretty... ...as I get my kicks on Route 66." --Nat King Cole.