NBA Oklahoma City Thunder

5 Takeaways From Oklahoma City Thunder’s Early-Season Play

5 Takeaways From Oklahoma City Thunder's Early-Season Play

Memphis Grizzlies v Oklahoma City Thunder - Game One
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The Oklahoma City Thunder are a few consecutive losses away from being in serious trouble. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook are both sidelined currently, and Serge Ibaka is not capable of carrying an offense by himself. All of those are major problems. Check out my five takeaways from the Thunder's early troubles.

5. Kevin Durant Better Not Rush

Oklahoma City Thunder v Dallas Mavericks
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5. Kevin Durant Better Not Rush

Oklahoma City Thunder v Dallas Mavericks
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The reigning league MVP is rehabbing a foot fracture that has ended many promising NBA careers. He needs to take his time. That is the clearest path for him to come back at his best.

4. Russell Westbrook Should Rush

Oklahoma City Thunder v Portland Trail Blazers
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4. Russell Westbrook Should Rush

Oklahoma City Thunder v Portland Trail Blazers
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Russell Westbrook needs to realize that his future with Durant is limited, and they need to maximize all of their time together. Making the playoffs is part of that equation.

3. Scott Brooks Is On Hot Seat

OKC NBA Draft
Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports

3. Scott Brooks Is On Hot Seat

OKC NBA Draft
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Scott Brooks has kept his job for far too long in my opinion, and this year will be when the dam actually breaks for him. If they do not make the playoffs, his job might be in jeopardy.

2. Serge Ibaka Is A Third Wheel

Serge Ibaka
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2. Serge Ibaka Is A Third Wheel

Serge Ibaka
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Serge Ibaka has shown over the last couple weeks that he is not ready to be the No. 1 offensive option. It is nothing to be ashamed of, but OKC fans need to realize what his offensive ceiling is.

1. They Will Miss Playoffs

Kevin Durant's Career
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1. They Will Miss Playoffs

Kevin Durant's Career
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Durant and Westbrook could drag the Thunder back into playoff contention with a late surge, but I think Durant may have some other injuries before the season is over. That may be pessimistic, however, it is also realistic.

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