Durant’s versatility big key
five preseason questions Improvement from Green, development of Westbrook also important

By Darnell Mayberry

Published: October 6, 2008

Access was limited throughout training camp, so questions still abound as the Thunder prepares for the start of its preseason schedule this week.

Thunder coach P.J. Carlesimo used most of the first five days of practice as teaching sessions, slowing things down to install offensive and defensive sets we’ll be seeing this season.

The Thunder players have two more days of fine-tuning before showing us just how much they’ve learned in the first week. Here are five questions to keep in mind as the preseason schedule gets under way:

What has Kevin Durant added?

Last season’s Rookie of the Year is said to have returned with more strength and versatility. Durant’s post-up game is supposed to be improved, allowing him to take advantage of his height against smaller guards. Durant was mostly a jump shooter last season, so an improved inside game should bring more trips to the foul line and increased efficiency.

How much has Jeff Green improved?

The Thunder’s win-loss record is largely dependent on Green’s development. Carlesimo primarily used Green as a defender last season before allowing him to unleash more of his offensive skills down the stretch. These first few games will be a good indicator of how much more Green will be involved in the offense and just how ready he is to handle more responsibility.

Is Russell Westbrook ready to replace Earl Watson as the starting point guard?

Westbrook has carried himself with poise and maturity thus far. He hasn’t had the "deer-in-the-headlights look” and has appeared ready to step in and contribute. Will that change when the lights get brighter?

How will the Thunder overcome an undersized, inexperienced and injured frontcourt?

Keep an eye on interior defense and rebounding. All three of the team’s young centers are injured, along with power forwards Joe Smith and D.J. White. And Chris Wilcox and Nick Collison are a feisty but undersized pairing in the starting lineup. Talented as they are, the perimeter players can only do so much.

Has the defense improved?

The theme in training camp has been defense. The preseason will show just how much better the league’s fourth-worst team in opponent scoring last season has become. The Thunder has added defensive stoppers in Westbrook and Desmond Mason. Will they help?

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