Oklahoma City defeated New Orleans in the first round after taking a team-first approach. Every starter had their moments and made a big impact in each game. A complete sweep requires it.
Even with the move to Dallas, the supporting cast still has to fill their roles. Lou Dort has a tough matchup, Chet Holmgren has to get physical down low and Josh Guidy has to make open 3-point shots. The Thunder's bench will also have to adapt to this situation, stepping up and providing relief to the starters whenever called upon.
But if this becomes a battle of stars, the series could fall on Jaylen Williams' shoulders.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will be a man on a mission with a lot to prove against other MVP candidates. There has been a lot of noise all season about the legitimacy of SGA's management and the strength of the Thunder team, but Gilgeous-Alexander could put an end to all that in the big series. But he can't do it alone.
Dallas has two superstars in Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving who could lead the team in scoring at any time. Both have been on the big stage and had big moments in the playoffs. Oklahoma City's game plan will revolve around stopping the Mavericks' duo.
To match Dallas' two superstar offense, the Thunder will be counting on Jaylen Williams to step up and become a playoff riser on the biggest stage. Williams has shown great growth this year and seems like the obvious second option for the Thunder. His trajectory is very high and NBA All-Star selection is not far away. But in a star-studded second-round matchup, the Thunder's vocal leader will need to develop quickly.
The first round sweep against the Pelicans boded well in determining how Williams would rise in the postseason. The founder of Oklahoma City's perpetual bark averaged 21.3 points, 7.3 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game against New Orleans. His minutes increased from an average of 31 hours per game in the regular season to 37 hours per game in the playoffs.
Maybe Williams can improve his game even further. His usage has increased in the playoffs, and as the stage gets bigger, J-Dub will have to shine even more. Oklahoma City will rely on him in the fourth quarter, but in the Western Conference semifinals, he will have to be aggressive throughout the game. If Williams can play Robin to Gilgeous-Alexander's Batman, it would be a star duo showdown.
Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams vs. Doncic and Irving. Oklahoma City's small ball vs. Dallas' athletic frontcourt. This week's series could become a series that lasts for many years.
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