For years, one stat that has continually plagued the Oklahoma City Thunder has been turnovers. The reasons and excuses that are given to explain the Thunder’s poor performance in this area are numerous ranging from passive coaching to Russell Westbrook’s sometimes “out-of-control” style of play.
Last year was especially bad for the Thunder as they finished tied for 27th in the league in turnovers per game at 15.5. Half of those turnovers alone belonged to Russell Westbrook and another player who is no longer with the team. This was the highest turnover average for the Thunder since the year they went to NBA Finals and finished dead last in the league in turnovers per game.
With a drastically different roster in tow, the Thunder has to figure out the offense quickly so they can remain as efficient as possible and continue their success on the offensive end of the court. Now that a certain player is no longer with the team, perhaps the passing offense can quit trying to be so fancy and take better care of the ball.
The ball will be in Russell Westbrook’s hands the majority of the time, and due to his style of play, he is bound to make mistakes, but his incredible output cannot be overlooked. He led the team in turnovers last year with 4.3 per game, but he also finished with an incredible 10.4 assists per game. Russ is primed and ready to takeover as OKC’s lone superstar. There is no doubt that he will do everything he can to make sure his game is at the highest level it ever has been, and that includes taking care of the ball.
Article written by Zack Low. Follow @thethunderguys on Twitter.