Oklahoma City Thunder: 3 players facing most pressure in 2019-20

Steven Adams

Going from the perceived expendable guy on your team to back in the fan’s — and front office’s —  good graces is an uphill battle.

Good thing Steven Adams doesn’t tire easily.

Before the NBA draft on June 20 — which seems like a different lifetime for this team — rumors swirled that the Oklahoma City Thunder could possibly trade Adams in an attempt to improve other spots of the roster and to trim down their luxury tax bill.

Now, two months later franchise cornerstones Paul George and Russell Westbrook are gone, The Thunder is well on its way to a rebuild and Adams is the elder statesman of the team. Arguably the most likely player to be traded away 60 days ago is now one of the focal points of the team.

Since his NBA debut in 2013 Adams has been seen as the young, tough, hard nosed player in Oklahoma City. Now he faces the pressure of being in the limelight.

As the longest tenured Thunder player (along with Andre Roberson) Adams understands the culture and expectations of the franchise and will most likely be responsible for continuing that culture with the younger players.

Adams low-key personality, unselfishness on the court, willingness to sacrifice his body and dedication to winning are all attributes that make him a prime candidate as the team leader within the locker room.

Now, for the first time he will be seen as that leader and face those responsibilities.

New roles mean more pressure. Adams has always done well in that spot.