The Oklahoma City Thunder’s porous defense will cause them to falter in the playoffs

Two nights ago the late heroism of the terrific duo of Oklahoma City Thunder SF Kevin Durant and PG Russell Westbrook shot their way to victory in a shootout against the Golden State Warriors at the Oracle Arena. Golden State Warriors’ SG Monta Ellis scored a monstrous 48 including almost 40 in the first half. The Golden State Warriors in many ways are a similar team to the Oklahoma City Thunder, albeit a far worse version. They lack severely in defense, but can outscore anyone. Even though Golden State SG Monta Ellis had a magnificent night, a three point win against a clearly inferior team in which Oklahoma City needed 119 points is a condemnation of their defensive talents. The Oklahoma City Thunder have one of the most prolific offenses in the game. However, in the case of the Western Conference, the defensive play is far weaker than their Eastern competitors. The West may be better from top to bottom, but their defense is shirked for sniper-like shooting and attacking off...