In perhaps a questionable deal yesterday, the Celtics sent Kendrick Perkins and Nate Robinson packing to the Oklahoma City Thunder for Jeff Green and Nenad Krstic.
The Thunder received their biggest need in a proven physical big, and in turn shipped their most tradable member of the roster, Green, who was having troubles finding an identity in the Sooner State.
Suddenly, with the surprising addition of Perk, the Thunder look more like a defensive team that is ready to roll in the playoffs come April.
While Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant anchor the scoring and playmaking of the starters, guys like Thabo Sefolosha and now Perkins can carry the defensive load.
The only position that this deal puts into question is the four spot. Green was OKC's starting small forward, and with the swap Durant can resume his play in his natural position at the three.
So who does that leave at the four?
Serge Ibaka, the 6'10" Congo product who was last seen throwing down a slam from the free throw line, is now the de facto starter at power forward. Aside from his hops, Ibaka's strengths lie with his hands, and he has used those ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Joseph Fafinski
Why the Perkins Deal Proves That Oklahoma City Is a Thunderous Force in the West
February 25th, 2011 by Joseph Fafinski Leave a reply »
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