Oklahoma City at Detroit: Three things to watch

By Anthony Slater – Aslater@opubco.com - @anthonyVslater

The Thunder are in Detroit tonight, tipping at 6:30 p.m. against the winless Pistons. Here’s a pregame primer:

Three OKC things to watch

1. Energy - Basketball, so much of the time, is about energy and effort. If you don’t bring it, you’re likely to lose. OKC is a team known for relative consistency in its high-energy play. But, like anyone, there can be lapses. And Monday’s game provides the perfect stage for a letdown. Winners of four straight, the Thunder have to go on a silly one-game road trip to Detroit, facing the winless Pistons will likely thinking more about Wednesday’s nationally televised home showdown with Memphis, a hated rival who has won five straight games. Watch the energy level early.

2. Good Westbrook/Bad Westbrook - Oftentimes, he’s the barometer for this team. Do you get the Russell Westbrook who shot 10-15 last night, dropping 27 points, 10 assists and six rebounds? Or do you get the guy from one game before, who went 3-10 for a quiet 10 points during a prolonged struggle against the Pistons at home? Usually you can tell within the first five minutes.