Wednesday Bolts: 02.19.20
The Jump on Chris Paul’s impact on the 2020 All-Star Game in Chicago, and the dunk that sent shockwaves through the league.
Moke Hamilton (USA Today OKC) looks at this season (so far) through the eyes of the trade that reshaped a franchise. “Aside from helping defy the expectations that most outside of the organization had for the young club, though, Paul has provided something quite valuable — a real-life illustration of being a winner.”
Erik Horne (The Athletic) with an intimate look at the growing chemistry between Chris Paul and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. “For as long as Paul is in Oklahoma City, there will always be eyes on the relationship between Paul and Gilgeous-Alexander. It’s a relationship that has illuminated Paul’s influence on the Thunder and it’s only appropriate that the two experienced NBA All-Star Weekend in Chicago together.”
Ethan Strauss (The Athletic) dissects some of the more striking numbers from Sports Business Journal’s local ratings report. Oklahoma City, while remaining in the top five of local television markets saw a 51 percent drop year-over-year.
In their latest Mock Draft, Bleacher Report has Sophomore Aaron Nesmith, a 6’6 213 pound SF, landing in Oklahoma City. To answer your first, second and third question: YES, he can shoot. Before going down with a foot injury, Nesmith averaged 23 ppg. while shooting 52.2 (!!!) percent from beyond the arc.
Check out DT’s Aidan Elrod’s scouting report on Nesmith here.
James Harden and Russell Westbrook sat down with GQ Magazine for its March cover story. The interview hit on topics from fashion, to childhood friendship, to the state of the Houston Rockets. But the duo was also asked about their first team, Oklahoma City and they weren’t shy when reminiscing...
If OKC doesn’t trade you in 2012, James, would y’all have a chip by now?
Harden: Man, hell yeah!
Westbrook: That’s easy.
Harden pointed out Oklahoma City was eliminated by the eventual champion in each of his three seasons with the Thunder. “My third year we lost in the Finals. And we just came off USA Basketball, won a gold medal. It was destined. But shit happens.”
what’s up everybody — my name is ryan and i’ll be helping out with bolts and other things around DT. excited to be a part and connect with fellow fans. you can find me on twitter @ryanwoods_… cheers!
