Minnesota Timberwolves game preview: Oct. 22 at Oklahoma City Thunder

SHENZHEN, CHINA - OCTOBER 05: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on during the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Golden State Warriors as part of 2017 NBA Global Games China at Universidade Center on October 5, 2017 in Shenzhen, China. (Photo by Zhong Zhi/Getty Images) /

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Photo by Layne Murdoch Sr./NBAE via Getty Images) /

Major Key for Oklahoma City: Bench Production

The Thunder have a definite big three in Westbrook, George, and Anthony. But what is there beyond that?

Oklahoma City Thunder /

Oklahoma City Thunder

While it is definitely early in the season (OKC has played one game), the Thunder are last in the NBA in bench production according to NBA.com, having scored just 16 bench points in the opener. The Thunder ranked league average last season in bench scoring, but lost some depth in the acquisitions of George and Carmelo.

Meanwhile, Minnesota can only be pleased with how the likes of Tyus Jones, Nemanja Bjelica, and Jamal Crawford, who outscored the entire Thunder bench in just the fourth quarter of the Wolves game against Utah.

The Thunder may indeed have the advantage while the starters are on the floor, but maintaining any potential lead when the terrific trio is off the floor will be crucial.

Oklahoma City signed talented forward Patrick Patterson this off-season, but he’s still working his way back from a knee injury, limiting his effectiveness and minutes. Jerami Grant is a versatile wing. Raymond Felton is an experienced point guard. Still, it doesn’t quite keep teams from being relieved when Westbrook, George, or Anthony head to the bench.

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