Better roster. Better fan support. Better record.
That was my logic when I predicted a 32-50 finish in October. Obviously, my original prediction was way too optimistic. Despite a woeful 3-29 start, the Thunder is a team on the rise. Talk of Oklahoma City challenging the 76ers for the worst all-time record has dissipated.
Based on improved play in recent weeks my adjusted W-L record is 23-59.
Regardless of the final win total, this is a young team with a bright future.
Kevin Durant is among the league scoring leaders, an emerging star worthy of All-Star status next season.
Jeff Green's average could improve by 6.0 points a game to 16.5. Green could drain 100 3-pointers, 80 more than last season.
Russell Westbrook is a Rookie of the Year candidate, most likely the franchise's third All-Rookie selection in two seasons.
Nenad Krstic was a good addition. Sam Presti has three first-round picks and salary cap space for a free agent.
The big question isn't how many wins OKC will post this season, it's when will the Thunder be a viable playoff contender?
Next season would be asking too much, but competing for a playoff berth in 2010-11 is a realistic goal.
