Isaiah Joe sparks Thunder’s 3-point resurgence as title defense thrives
After a shaky beginning to the season, the Oklahoma City Thunder are finding their rhythm from long range. With an impressive 12-1 record, they sit atop the league, showcasing an almost flawless performance in their title defense. While the early weeks presented a few challenges, particularly in their perimeter shooting, the Thunder have turned things around dramatically.
Early Struggles from Beyond the Arc
In their initial outings, the Thunder’s ability to shoot from the three-point line raised eyebrows. Over the first six games, they managed to exceed the league average of 35.8% from three only once. That slow start not only frustrated fans but also prompted questions about their offensive strategy. However, as the season progressed, a noticeable shift occurred.
Turning the Tide
Despite shooting just 30.8% from deep in a recent blowout victory against the Los Angeles Lakers, this marked only the second time in seven games that the Thunder fell short of the league average. The significance of Isaiah Joe’s return from injury cannot be overstated in this transformation. After missing the first five games of the season, Joe has integrated seamlessly into the Thunder’s offensive scheme. His presence on the court has invigorated the team’s shooting, contributing significantly to their overall success.
Joe’s impact is palpable; he brings not only sharpshooting but also an infectious energy that elevates the entire squad. As the Thunder continue their title defense, the revival of their three-point game is a crucial element of their strategy moving forward. With Joe back in the mix, the Thunder seem poised to maintain their strong start, proving they are a formidable force in the league this season.
