The Oklahoma City Thunder find themselves in a critical position, trailing 3-2 in their second-round series against the Dallas Mavericks in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. The series started positively for the Thunder with a convincing 117-95 victory, largely due to their outstanding 3-point shooting. However, their success from beyond the arc has significantly dwindled since then, dropping to a concerning 29.1% from games 2 to 5, and their head coach Mark Daigneault seems to have a solution.
“We were the best 3-point shooting team in the league for much of the season… This team is taking away the rim at all costs, parking their bigs at the basket. So 3-pointers are available and we have to find them and take them.”
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault has identified a strategic adjustment to combat the Mavericks’ defensive tactics. Dallas has been “parking their bigs at the basket,” effectively taking away easy opportunities at the rim and daring the Thunder to shoot from long range.
Despite the recent shooting slump, Daigneault remains confident in his team’s ability to knock down 3-pointers, which was a hallmark of their regular season success.
Throughout the regular season, the Thunder were one of the best 3-point shooting teams in the league, leading with the highest 3-point percentage at 38.9%. This strength continued into the first round of the playoffs against the New Orleans Pelicans, where they shot an impressive 38.7% from downtown.
However, against the Mavericks, their 3-point shooting percentage has plummeted to 32.7%. Daigneault believes that maintaining this high-volume 3-point approach is crucial, especially when the Mavericks’ defensive strategy leaves the perimeter open.
The Thunder’s offensive strategy heavily relies on their 3-point shooting. During the regular season, they were ranked 7th in the league, averaging 13.3 made 3-pointers per game. Against the New Orleans Pelicans in the first round, they maintained this average, continuing their strong perimeter shooting.
However, the Mavericks have effectively limited the Thunder’s drive-and-kick offense by closing out on shooters and disrupting their rhythm. This has resulted in fewer wide-open 3-point attempts for Oklahoma City, forcing them to take more contested shots, which they have struggled to convert. Consequently, their average has dropped to 10.6 made 3-pointers per game against Dallas.
In their do-or-die Game 6, the Thunder must rediscover their shooting touch to force a Game 7. The Mavericks have effectively limited the Thunder’s drive-and-kick offense by closing out on shooters and disrupting their rhythm. This has resulted in fewer wide-open 3-point attempts for Oklahoma City, forcing them to take more contested shots, which they have struggled to convert.
Ultimately, the Thunder’s fate in this series hinges on their ability to adapt and execute from beyond the arc. If they can capitalize on the open looks that the Mavericks’ defense is conceding and shoot with the confidence and accuracy that defined their regular season, they have a fighting chance to extend their playoff run.
Even If The Thunder Lose Their Future Is Bright
The Oklahoma City Thunder find themselves on the brink of elimination, facing a must-win Game 6 against the Dallas Mavericks. While their playoff hopes are hanging by a thread, there is no need for concern about their future. The Thunder have built a foundation that promises sustained success in the coming years, regardless of the outcome of this playoff series.
First, it’s important to recognize the significant achievements of this season. The Thunder, with the second-youngest squad in the NBA, have shown remarkable resilience and talent. Reaching the Western Conference Finals would be a testament to their growth and potential. Even if they fall short, making it to the second round is an impressive feat for such a young team, indicating a bright future ahead.
Moreover, the Thunder’s long-term prospects are incredibly promising, thanks in large part to their treasure trove of draft assets. Over the next seven years, the Thunder hold an astonishing 35 draft picks—15 first-round picks and 20 second-round picks. This wealth of draft capital positions them uniquely to either develop a plethora of young talent or package these picks to acquire established stars.
The Thunder’s front office, led by General Manager Sam Presti, has a proven track record of making astute decisions on draft night. This abundance of picks provides them with unparalleled flexibility. They can target specific needs, trade up to select top-tier prospects or engage in blockbuster trades to bring in elite players. The possibilities are virtually limitless.
Additionally, the Thunder’s current roster is filled with promising young talents like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, Josh Giddey, and Luguentz Dort, who have already shown they can compete at a high level. The development of these players, coupled with the potential influx of talent from future drafts, sets the Thunder up for sustained success.
Even if the Thunder do not advance past the Mavericks, their future is undeniably bright. The combination of a young, talented core and a plethora of draft picks ensures that the Thunder will remain competitive and continue to improve.
Their journey this season is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting era for Oklahoma City basketball. So, Thunder fans should remain optimistic and look forward to the continued growth and success of their team.
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