GMs give Thunder some love

      For the eighth consecutive year, NBA.com conducted a survery of the league’s general managers. The Thunder was mentioned in a few categories.

      The Thunder figured most prominently on two questions — the most improved team this season and player most likely to have a breakthrough season. James Harden also received some votes in various rookie voting categories.

      Oklahoma City, receiving 13.8 percent of the votes, finished third in the most improved balloting behind Washington (48.3 percent) and the Clippers (17.2).

      The question: Which Player is most likely to have a breakthough season is where the Thunder stood out, receiving one third of the votes.

      Kevin Durant finished first in breakthrough season balloting, receiving 25.9 precent of the votes. Russell Westbrook tied for third with 7.4 percent.

      Harden tied for first with 11.9 percent of the votes for the rookie most likely to be a “sleeper” success story. Harden also tied a distant second behind runaway winner Blake Griffin for rookie that will be the best player in five years.

      In the honorable mention categories, Ron Adams and Mo Cheeks both received one vote each for best NBA assistant coach.

       The GM survery produces interesting results which carry some weight considering these are the men who sign free agents, make trades and make draft picks.