Reigning NBA MVP Russell Westbrook made his 2017 preseason debut Friday when the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the New Orleans Pelicans, 102-91. However, it was not Westbrook who starred in the victory. It was Paul George who shone for the Thunder.
In nearly 30 minutes on the hardwood, George exploded for 25 points, while also having four rebounds and two steals. He is the only player for Oklahoma City that scored in double-digits. In two preseason games so far, it looks like the Thunder's move to trade for the 27-year-old is a good one. It was in July when the Thunder surprised the basketball world after they completed the deal for George.
In exchange for him, they sent Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis to the Indiana Pacers.
It is likely that George will again have a stellar outing when the Thunder play their third preseason game against Melbourne United this Sunday. The team's preseason campaign will end on October 10 when they take on the Denver Nuggets at the Pepsi Center.
Limited Russell Westbrook
The reason why Russell Westbrook saw limited action in his preseason debut was his knee. Oklahoma City's franchise superstar underwent knee procedure (platelet-rich plasma injection) two weeks ago and is still recovering. Despite this, he recorded nine points, one rebound, and four assists as a starter for the Thunder. As of the moment, it is uncertain if the 28-year-old is going to participate when they host Melbourne.
Relaxed Melo
The other member of Oklahoma City's Big Three, Carmelo Anthony, slowed down Friday. Anthony led the Thunder with 19 points in their preseason opener loss to the Houston Rockets last Tuesday. Versus the Pelicans, the 33-year-old just had nine points, which came with six rebounds and an assist.
No issues
When the Thunder landed Paul George and Carmelo Anthony, the concern was if the two can coexist with Russell Westbrook.
All of them are prolific scorers, that means they are going to ask for the ball. However, in Friday's game, that was not an issue. The trio performed well as a unit, though they were on the court at the same time for below seven minutes only. At this point, it is unlikely that any problem will arise.
The real test for Westbrook, George, Anthony and the Thunder is their upcoming campaign.
In the 2017-18 NBA season, Oklahoma City will see if these star players could gel and play cohesively for long periods of time. The organization is relying on them as it aims to contend in the star-studded Western Conference.
