New faces will be tested in Thunder's preseason opener

“We could have been a lot better (last year) just by us talking,” said Kevin Durant.

Asked on Tuesday what would make Wednesday's exhibition opener a success, forward Nick Collison immediately pointed to communication.

“I think if we can communicate,” Collison said. “If we can execute some things offensively and defensively is big. Try to defend their sets. And communication is big, talking more and moving as a unit. That would be a good start.”

As has been the case in the past, Brooks doesn't plan to give his stars too much work. Durant and Russell Westbrook, Brooks said, likely will be limited to 16 minutes. Serge Ibaka could play as many as 18 minutes. It's possible none of those three players take the court again after halftime.

“I think everybody is going to get an opportunity,” Brooks said. “Our starters are not going to play heavy minutes. I can't imagine those guys playing over 16 to 18 minutes. Maybe right at that number. But guys are going to get lots of opportunities. It's a great time for them to get out there and show what they can do and how they do it within team concepts.”