Candice Ward-Imagn Photos
Weak point: An influence forward-sized energy ahead
Capturing is an appropriate reply right here, too – the group is common in each quantity and frequency – however too many opposing energy forwards have had their manner with OKC this yr. I swear they’ve performed PJ Washington 20 occasions within the final eight months.
No non-center within the Thunder rotation cracks 6-foot-6. Regardless of the prodigious power and tenacity of fellows like Lu Dort and Jalen Williams, generally, you simply want extra dimension.
The reply is perhaps in-house. Injured bamboo stalk Chet Holmgren ought to return someday after the All-Star break, and he’ll doubtless play huge minutes subsequent to Isaiah Hartenstein to type a monstrous defensive duo. However that reply remains to be hypothetical. It stays to be seen if Holmgren really has the foot velocity or power to maintain up with the West’s barrel-chested fours like LeBron James (or Anthony Davis, relying on if the Lakers make a transfer for a middle), Kevin Durant (or Jimmy Butler), Jaren Jackson Jr., Aaron Gordon, Kawhi Leonard, Julius Randle, and so on.
I’m optimistic, however relying upon optimism is a idiot’s errand. Given the Thunder’s treasure trove of property, making a transfer for a defensive-minded 4 looks as if a sensible contingency plan.
