Oklahoma City Thunder: 5 reasons they can win the West

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JANUARY 29: Paul George #13 of the Oklahoma City Thunder (left) celebrates with Russell Westbrook #0 against the Orlando Magic during the first half at Amway Center on January 29, 2019 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

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5. Rebounding

The Thunder have long been one of the best rebounding teams in the league, and the same is no different this season, ranking second overall in total rebounds as well as first in offensive rebounds per game.

Ever since Steven Adamas was drafted, OKC has had this hulking presence in the restricted area not many teams can stop. At 7’0” and 265 pounds, he’s an immovable hunk of muscle, capable of either keeping the opposition away from the boards or fighting his way inside to get his hands on extra possessions.

Against a team like Golden State, it’s important to keep the game at a regular pace to avoid those 3-point barrages the two-time defending champs are famously known for. It starts with making sure each defensive possession ends with a rebound in order to dictate the flow of the action at both ends of the court.

Offensively, Adam’s has the ability to drain opponent’s energy with a relentless pursuit of the basketball, and it’s that same mindset which gifts the Thunder extra possessions and gets opposing bigs in foul trouble.

Stopping the Warriors is hard enough as is, but allowing them to get out on the break and create extra shot opportunities is a near death sentence for teams looking to take them out of their rhythm. With Adams down low and an elite rebounding guard like Russell Westbrook actively pursuing the basketball, OKC isn’t likely to give Golden State that advantage.

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