Oklahoma City Thunder: 3 Areas For Improvement From Game 1

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Apr 16, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) looks up during the third quarter against the Houston Rockets in game one of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

In losing Game 1 on Sunday, the Oklahoma City Thunder left much to be desired in their own play. They’ll have to tighten up if they hope to compete with the Houston Rockets.

In the first round of what has been titled the “MVP Bowl,” James Harden and the Houston Rockets emerged victorious 118-87. Capitalizing on a 59-33 advantage in the second half, the Rockets’ attack eventually wore down the Oklahoma City Thunder defense on a night the Thunder simply couldn’t keep up on the scoreboard.

Oklahoma City head coach Billy Donovan will certainly have plenty of ammo in the film session on Game 1, starting with the lack of execution in things that the Thunder have done all year.

The Rockets didn’t even shoot well from deep, going 10-for-33 on the evening, a far cry from what they’re capable of.

Because Oklahoma City was so terrified of the long ball (as many teams have been against Houston), it opened up gaping driving lanes for Harden and drop-off opportunities for Clint Capela, Nene Hilario and others.

The game also exposed certain players on the Thunder roster that have played pivotal roles in getting Oklahoma City here. Donovan certainly has his hands full going into Game 2. Here are three adjustments that must be made if the Thunder are to succeed in this series.