Oklahoma City Thunder: Appreciating Serge Ibaka

Feb 5, 2014; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder power forward Serge Ibaka (9) blocks a shot attempt by Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Ricky Rubio (9) during the first quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

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Feb 3, 2014; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder power forward Serge Ibaka (9) reacts to a made basket in action against the Memphis Grizzlies during the second quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Improved Passing

There is no denying that the NBA has gotten smaller. Big men like Joakim Noah, Marc Gasol and Paul Gasol have all developed a passing game. Slowly but surely, Ibaka is making smarter decisions with the basketball. His assist-to-turnover ration has increased in each of his five years in the league: .15, .31, .34, .35, and .56. Ibaka has already set a career high in assists this year. While his passing numbers are less than ideal, there is no denying that he is improving.

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