Most of the attention in Oklahoma City falls on Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and Jeff Green, and rightfully so. But if the Thunder are going to build on their early success so far, it'll be more of a team effort. "We got a lot of depth on this team a lot of guys that can come in and contribute," Green said. "Every good team has a good bench that can come out and contribute when needed." Oklahoma City has opened the season with two straight wins thanks to contributions up and down the lineup. Thabo Sefolosha and Nenad Krstic have filled out an improved starting five, while vets like Kevin Ollie, Etan Thomas and Nick Collison have helped solidify the second unit.
Thunder coach Scott Brooks also noted that the physical gifts of many on the roster translate to more than scoring. Oklahoma City, back home Sunday against Portland, has held Sacramento and Detroit to an average of 86 points through two games.
"We should be able to score off of our defense by creating opportunities in transition, utilize our long athletic players on the wings," Brooks said.
THUNDER 91, PISTONS 83: Oklahoma City remained undefeated after two games by winning in a building that's given the franchise fits. The Thunder had dropped five straight and 10 of 11 at The Palace.
Kevin Durant led Oklahoma City with 25 points, with 11 coming in the fourth quarter. Jeff Green, Nenad Krstic and Russell Westbrook were also in double-figures. The Pistons were outscored 53-38 in the second half.
The last time the Thunder franchise started 2-0 was 2003-04 season when it was still in Seattle. Oklahoma City started 1-16 last season and didn't pick up its second win until Nov. 29.
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