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NBA: 10 takeaways from the first quarter of the 2017-18 season

By Evan Dyal

BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 24: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics reacts in front of Willy Hernangomez #14 of the New York Knicks after hitting a three point shot during the fourth quarter at TD Garden on October 24, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics defeat the Knicks 110-89. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 24: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics reacts in front of Willy Hernangomez #14 of the New York Knicks after hitting a three point shot during the fourth quarter at TD Garden on October 24, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics defeat the Knicks 110-89. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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SACRAMENTO, CA – NOVEMBER 07: Carmelo Anthony #7 of the Oklahoma City Thunder shoots over Skal Labissiere #7 of the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on November 7, 2017 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CA – NOVEMBER 07: Carmelo Anthony #7 of the Oklahoma City Thunder shoots over Skal Labissiere #7 of the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on November 7, 2017 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

OKC’s offensive issues 

If the season ended today, the Oklahoma City Thunder would not make the playoffs. This, despite having a top 5 point differential in the NBA.

OKC has blown some big leads, lost some close games and is still trying to figure out itself offensively. We all expected some struggles as Russell Westbrook, Carmelo Anthony and Paul George all high usage players learn how to play with each other.

They still have time, but they need to get it together. The numbers aren’t great, but there are signs of life. OKC is now 16th in offensive efficiency. Ball movement is an issue, as the Thunder are 21st in assists. They take turns going one on one, or over passing trying to keep everyone happy. Balance has not been found. Plus, they are not taking or making enough efficient shots. OKC is 21st in true shooting percentage and 17th in effective field goal percentage. They are 20th in three-point percentage and 24th in free throw percentage.

The good news is the defense has been fantastic, and the offense is improving every game. However, the clock is ticking.

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