5 reasons the Oklahoma City Thunder can win the NBA Championship

4. A better bench

Oklahoma City’s putrid bench output and shallow depth has long plagued the franchise. Remember when Derek Fisher was playing crunch time minutes against the Spurs back in the 2014 Western Conference Finals? Every year they seem to find themselves relying on some washed up vet or an overmatched youngster. Last year’s bench production was especially ugly and the Thunder paid for it. With OKC rostering no capable backup ball handlers, the team fell to pieces whenever Russell Westbrook hit the bench.

The addition of Raymond Felton, has brought some stability to the team’s backup units. He hasn’t lit the world aflame, but he’s capably directed much of OKC’s non-Westbrook offense. Jerami Grant has flashed growth on both ends of the floor, but his jumper is wildly erratic. Even so, Grant will get a chance to play against Utah. His athleticism could be critical in unlocking some of the Thunder’s most ferocious defensive units. Patrick Patterson provides versatility as a shooter and defender, although he’s generally disappointed this year. OKC will also try Abrines in order to optimize spacing on offense, but he probably won’t hold up on defense for long; teams should be able to play him off the floor.

Although that Thunder backup quartet isn’t terrifying anyone, one or two of those guys stepping up would ease the immense burden on the starters. Of course teams shorten rotations and play their stars in the 40 minute per game range during the playoffs.  Staying afloat when only one of the Thunder stars is sitting is absolutely critical. This year’s squad is much better suited to pull that off so that Westbrook and George can take the team home in the clutch.