In a crucial moment of the third game of the first round of playoffs, Alex Caruso demonstrated his instinct by stealing the ball from the hands of Scotty Pippen Jr., player of the Memphis Grizzlies. The Grizzlies, who were losing by three points, desperately needed to generate a good offensive play against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite the absence of Ja Morant, the Thunder’s defense prevailed.
The Thunder’s defense was relentless, completing the second-largest comeback in playoff history. The Grizzlies fell to the league’s number one defense, which prevented them from scoring easily. Caruso highlighted the importance of defense to the team’s success.
“Our defense is our superpower. When we are focused on that side of the court, we are an unstoppable force.”
Alex Caruso
Oklahoma City, with a record of 68 wins, led the league and swept Memphis. The Thunder broke the NBA record for best point differential in a season, driven by a dominant defense. The team combines talent, tenacity, and teamwork.
This defense, along with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s play, is being tested in the Western Conference semifinals. Nikola Jokic, a three-time MVP, poses challenges even against a perfect defense. The next challenge will be against the Nuggets in the third game in Denver.
“It felt like there were seven pit bulls out there. Not five. They were scratching, reaching, in a good way. Their speed and athleticism took us down. It was that simple. That’s their calling card.”
Kenny Atkinson, Cleveland Cavaliers coach
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, despite not being recognized as the Defensive Player of the Year, led the league in steals. His defensive ability stands out, averaging at least 1.5 steals and 1.0 blocks per game in the last three seasons.
The team features Dort, known for his perimeter defense, and the additions of Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein. Dort prides himself on defending the opponents’ top scorers. Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace also contribute on defense, ensuring there is no respite for opponents.
“There aren’t many guys as big and strong as Lu who can move laterally so well. He’s kind of a freak athlete in his own way. And then he’s really worked at it, understanding the game and understanding his opponents.”
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Dort’s combination of strength and agility makes him a formidable one-on-one defender. Teamwork is fundamental, with players like Holmgren and Hartenstein waiting in the paint.
“You don’t really have a weak link. When your stars play at a high defensive level, everyone has to focus. Just seeing your best guys making those sacrifices, everyone has to buy into it. So I think it starts with them and then the rest.”
Isaiah Hartenstein
The team emphasizes the importance of collective defense. Caruso and Wallace recognize Dort’s ability, while the team as a whole benefits from an interconnected game. The Thunder rarely leaves its defenders alone, utilizing defensive help and double teams.
“We haven’t said it out loud, but iron sharpens iron. You see someone competing at a certain level, playing at a certain level, you have no choice but to match it. And if you don’t, you fall behind.”
Alex Caruso
The Thunder strengthened their defense, improving their defensive efficiency. The addition of Caruso and Hartenstein, along with the versatility of coach Mark Daigneault, has allowed the team to vary its strategies. The team led the league in steals, forced turnovers, and points generated from turnovers.
“They rely heavily on their defensive stoppers, there are practically five of them at once.”
Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks player
The Thunder’s defense improved despite injuries, allowing fewer points than any other team. The team has continued this trend in the second round, showcasing its ability to adapt and overcome challenges, as evidenced in the victory over the Nuggets.
At a key moment, Holmgren stopped Jokic, leading to a fast break led by Gilgeous-Alexander. This sequence exemplifies the team’s connection, where defense fuels offense.
The Thunder seeks to eliminate more rivals in the playoffs, relying on their defense and teamwork.
