- The Bleacher Report’s preview of the Oklahoma City Thunder (one of the better ones if you ask me): “Barring significant “jumps” from multiple youngsters on this roster, the first regular-season Oklahoma City Thunder campaign should come in abysmal fashion—at least as far as the win column is concerned. Once again, this team is loaded with promising young talent, and they won’t fail to entertain fans, but they simply aren’t ready to compete with the big boys just yet.”
- The Sporting News’ preview of the team: “All eyes should be focused to see if combo guard Westbrook can begin running Kevin Durant’s club. Westbrook is the prize at No. 4 overall. Rookie D.J. White, taken with the 29th pick, had a benign growth removed from his jaw and will be sidelined four to six months while he heals from surgery. Fellow first-rounder Serge Ibaka, an 18-year-old 6-11 post player, likely will stay overseas, but second-round selection DeVon Hardin of Cal could contribute this year inside.”
- AOL ranks the top 50 NBA players. Kevin Durant clocks in at No. 37. How could they leave Bob Swift off the list? But his upside! His upside!
- Darnell Mayberry on Russell Westbrook: “The sequence embodied the best of Westbrook this preseason. He’s been tough and tenacious, courageous enough to take on any challenge and confident enough in his abilities to believe he’ll win any battle.”
- The Oklahoman’s media “expert” Mel Bracht breaks down Thunderman Matt Pinto’s radio call: “If anybody can work solo, though, it’s Thunder radio voice Matt Pinto. His high-energy delivery through the preseason has been delightful as the injury-plagued Thunder struggled to a 1-4 start.”
