Last Season: The Thunder got off to one of the worst starts in NBA history last year. Through December 29th the Thunder were 3-29. Then, the Thunder got respectable. Sure, over the last 50 games they were just 20-30 but when you start the way they did, 20-30 must feel like when the Bulls won 72 games. Kevin Durant exploded onto the scene last year and finished with the sixth highest scoring average. Jeff Green made strides to become a nice compliment to Durant and rookie Russell Westbrook exceeded expectations.

Acquisitions: G James Harden, F Serge Ibaka, C B.J. Mullens, G Kevin Ollie, C Etan Thomas

Departures: G Earl Watson, F Damien Wilkins, G Desmond Mason, G Chucky Atkins

Starting Five: F Kevin Durant, F Jeff Green, C Nenad Krstic, G Russell Westbrook, G Thabo Sefolosha

Bench Mob: Nick Collison, B.J. Mullens, James Harden, Shaun Livingston, D.J. White, Kyle Weaver, Chris Wilcox, Joe Smith

Most Interesting Man in the World: Shaun Livingston – Henry Abbott called him “The Oldest 24-Year-Old in the NBA”. Livingston was drafted out of High School by the Clippers in 2004. In 2007 he completely tore up his left knee and has been trying to come back ever since. He’s reportedly been looking good in camp and his return would be a great story.

Over the Hill: Etan Thomas – It’s a shame the Thunder aren’t getting the Etan Thomas of 2004. They could really use a presence in the paint. Instead they get a guy who had open heart surgery in 2007 and has seen his production slip the past few years. At least he has his poetry to fall back on.

Ready to Break Out: Russell Westbrook – Durant will get the majority of the press this season (and deservedly so) but Westbrook has a chance to really shine. Although playing out of position (Westbrook plays more like a two-guard than point guard), he adapted well and put up over 15 points and five assists per game. With one more year to gel with Durant and Green, Westbrook will only get better running the point.

Outlook: The Thunder are going to be a fun team to watch this year. They are extremely young and talented, but young and talented doesn’t translate to a contender and often doesn’t translate into a playoff spot. They’re too young and don’t have enough depth to make much noise but they should take the next step as they continue to build around Kevin Durant.

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