NBA Power Rankings: Listing the 10-Best Defensive Teams
By John Kim
6. Oklahoma City Thunder
November 16, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder power forward Serge Ibaka (9) blocks a shot by New Orleans Hornets power forward Anthony Davis (23) during the first quarter of a game at the New Orleans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
The Thunder had a defensive rating of 102.6 (4th) and allowed 96.5 points per game (9th). Led by NBA All-Defensive First Team member, Serge Ibaka, the Thunder were a sneakily good defensive team.
Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, the Thunder’s Big-Two, are two of the most pesky defensive players in the league. Durant uses his massive wingspan to bother opposing players while Westbrook uses his freakish athleticism and strength to bully smaller guards.
Thabo Sefolosha and Kendrick Perkins round out the starting lineup with reliable defense that shows up each game.
Unfortunately for the Thunder, their defense ends there. Their bench is ultra-thin and though their starting lineup has the ability to defensively compete with the best in the league, it’s impossible for the starting five to play 48 minutes a game.