A nice take care of business win for the Thunder on Wednesday night inside Chesapeake Energy Arena over the Indiana Pacers by a score of 114-96. The Pacers aren’t much and without Myles Turner they’re even less, but it was a good win for OKC as they continue to feel themselves out in the team building process.
Russell Westbrook triple doubled for the 81st time in his career this time with 28 points, 16 assists, and 10 rebounds. Carmelo Anthony chipped in with 28 points. Steven Adams double doubled for the second straight game. Raymond Felton was solid. Some nice things from Jerami Grant and Josh Huestis. Andre didn’t have to attempt a free throw. Alex Abrines stuffed Domas Sabonis on a point blank shot at the rim. Patrick Patterson played 16 minutes and looks like he’s getting his legs back under him. Paul George fouled out against his former teammates and finished with only 10 points.
Only downside in an 18 point win would probably be Paul George fouling out.
Indiana is picked by most to finish in the bottom third in the East so the Thunder are still looking for their first win this season over a team which will make the playoffs in either conference.
Victor Oladipo scored 35 points on his former mates and looked more at ease than he did last season playing in OKC.
The Thunder even out at 2-2 and hit the road to play in Minnesota on Friday night. The Timberwolves haven’t won a game since Wiggins’ half court heave against the Thunder. I look at it this way, if that lucky shot doesn’t fall the Thunder are 3-1. Take away the bad performance in Utah and the Thunder so far have been decent figuring themselves out four games in.
Patrick Patterson should start playing better. Felton has been excellent. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by some of the things Josh Huestis has shown so far. And as we all know–Andre is going to start being the ball so that will take care of itself.
OKC in Minnesota on Friday night.