OKLAHOMA CITY — It’s almost cruel how the Oklahoma City Thunder lull teams into a false confidence before recalibrating the game, turning it on its head and delivering blow after knockout blow.
The Thunder, as precocious as they are, seduce you into believing the game is played on your terms. And before you know it, you’re a ball of frustration — realizing that summer vacation is approaching with every loss.
That seduction was evident Tuesday in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals, as it very much felt like the Minnesota Timberwolves had a good feel for their opponent, even though the two hadn’t seen each other since February.