It was another dismal performance from the Thunder as they managed to lose 95-61. Chris Duarte once again put up a strong line with 19 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals. Besides Duarte, it was an all-around effort from the Pacers. OKC had a couple of good performances from Jeremiah Robinson-Earl and Jaylen Hoard but besides them, they came up flat. Here are the best performances from OKC’s side:
Robinson-Earl was the most effective Thunder and it wasn’t too close. The second-round pick put up a healthy line of 13 points, 10 boards, two assists, a steal and a block. He shot 4-8 from the field and made 1-3 threes. He missed a couple of freebies, resulting in a 4-6 mark from the line. Again, his defense was very disruptive and he was all over the court. His offense was also good as he was shooting with confidence and driving with power and speed. His game is so much fun to watch and it’s like a broken record, but he is ready for NBA minutes. He has had an awesome run in the Summer League averaging 11.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, two steals and a block a game. His efficiency was spot on too as he shot 49% from the field, 38% from three and 63% from the line. His only issues are his ball security (2.3 TO’s compared to 1.3 assists) and free throw shooting. If he can correct these, watch out.
Hoard was scorching hot on offense, going 7/9 from the field for 16 points and two threes. He also tacked on two boards, an assist and a steal for good measure. Besides the one good game, he hasn’t really done a whole lot this summer, putting in averages of seven points, six rebounds, 0.8 assists and half a steal a game. The efficiency was okay, as he shot 44% from the field and 33% from three. Hoard was a rotational player for OKC last year and he didn’t really show a whole lot. There for mostly development purposes, he could be in the rotation again this year if they bring him back. If not, minutes will be spread between the new comers and wing players.
Wiggins had another double digit scoring night, putting up 10 points five boards, one assist and a steal. He struggled shooting the rock, though as he shot 4-10 from the field and made only 1-5 threes. Wiggins has had a nice summer, putting in averages of 11.5 points, five boards, 1.8 assists, 1.5 steals and half a block a game. Wiggins could possible carve out a role with the big club. If not, he’ll definitely spend some time in the G-League so he could develop more. He’s looking very competent right now and his ball handling is much more improved since he got to the Summer League. Hopefully his role increases and he eventually gets more time in the NBA rather than the G-League.
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