How would the Thunder fare in the playoffs? Even if Oklahoma City clinched the top spot in the West, the lack of experience of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and his teammates, their lack of size under the rim or their unusually wide rotation represented questions when it came time to challenge the Pelicans.
Result ? Three victories, the last two of which were particularly authoritarian…
“We are just trying to overcome the obstacle that is in front of us”, explains Mark Daigneaultthe team's coach. “That's how we've always been, not just this season. »
For the technician, his group differs from the usual standards of the Great League, and that is what makes it strong.
“The word I've been using with the team all year is 'atypical'. I think they demonstrate an atypical maturity and composure, an atypical competitiveness and solidarity. And thanks to this competitiveness, they are not isolated. They fight together. It gives you confidence, in tense situations or outside, when you're part of a unit, and I really think they feel that way.”
Last proof with the very rapid exit of Jalen Williams, hit in the face by Brandon Ingram after only 33 seconds of play? Nothing to disrupt the Thunder's dynamic.
“It’s the sign of a very good team” notes Josh Giddey. “One of our major players falls, we bring in Cason (Wallace) and it’s the same. He plays his role. Nobody tries to be anyone else. The guys come in, do their job. Our team is very dense. Look at our bench, everyone who came in had an impact. »
