Despite leading a remarkable turnaround after a miserable start, Thunder coach Scott Brooks isn't assured of returning next season. He hasn't discussed a contract extension with the front office.
"I'm still interim," Brooks told the Daily Oklahoman. "I'm thankful for the opportunity. I've gotten a lot of games under my belt. I think I'm getting better. I think our team is improving." Brooks said his priority and that of the team is to focus on finishing the regular season strong. Oklahoma City was 15-17 in the past 32 games going into Wednesday night at Denver.
"We're not going to throw away these games looking forward to the summer or next season," Brooks continued. "These are important games for not only myself, but for our team to get better."
Thunder general manager Sam Presti has said that Brooks' performance would be evaluated after the season. Brooks replaced former coach P.J. Carlesimo, who was fired after a 1-12 start. OKC's record eventually fell to 3-29 before taking a dramatic swing upward.
Brooks added that he hasn't considered his coaching future should the Thunder go in another direction at coach.
"It hasn't really crossed my mind too much, but I like what I'm doing," he said. "I like the team I have, and Sam is putting together a bunch of high-character guys that work hard, so it's fun to be around."
NUGGETS 112, THUNDER 99: Oklahoma City fell behind early and spent the rest of the night fighting back in vain, falling Wednesday night at Denver. The Thunder (18-47) had won five of their previous six.
Jeff Green led OKC with 19 points and seven rebounds in his second game back from injury. Earl Watson added 18 points off the bench, and four other Thunder players hit double figures. Carmelo Anthony (22 points) led the Nuggets, who took a 12-point lead after the first quarter and snapped a three-game losing streak. OKC is off until Saturday's visit to Phoenix.
