Nov 10, 2017
Thoughts on the Thunder, Anunoby and more
TSN Basketball Insider Jack Armstrong on the problems in OKC and how their needy scorers need to check their egos and worry more about wins than stats.
1. Oklahoma City Thunder (4-7): The Thunder had a team meeting after losing to the Denver Nuggets last night; they're reeling right now. Bottom line, they have two players in Russell Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony that are needy scorers and want/have to have the ball in their hands, as well as Paul George, who is also used to being a No. 1 guy. It’s time for everyone to check their ego at the door and figure out how to play together as a team. Wins, not stats, are what truly matters, though sometimes I wonder.
2. OG Anunoby (Raptors): This young man has a chance to be a very good defender of multiple positions in this league. He's long, athletic, quick with excellent lateral quicks, strong, smart, and active. His offensive game is developing and I like his cerebral approach. He’s an intriguing player with great promise.
3. Nikola Jokic (Nuggets): This guy is so much fun to watch. He's capable of possibly giving you a triple-double and definitely a double-double. He's a fabulous passer with great touch and vision and a skilled scorer with a nose for the ball on the boards. If you haven't gotten to watching him yet, he's a treat to check out. Emerging young big man.
4. Nicolas Batum (Hornets): He'll be back soon. He’s a sound two-way player who has excellent passing skills, shoots the three, defends, and is a good team guy. He'll improve their perimeter play on both ends. It’s always nice to add a guy who gets you 15 points, six rebounds, and six assists a night.
5. JJ Redick (76ers): He’s on a big money, short-term deal in Philly and he's been a major upgrade for them as a wing player. He's averaging 15.4 points per game along with almost four assists per game while shooting around 40% from long distance. He's the consummate pro who is an ideal role model for a group of young players. Nice pickup by GM Bryan Colangelo that helps in the short term and allows the franchise the long-term financial flexibility needed to be active/creative improving the quality of the team. Smart fit.