Mark Daigneault believes lengthy playoff rotation could be advantage for Thunder

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23/04/2024 03:00

Through one playoff game, Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault has stuck to his guns. The probable Coach of the Year winner spoke several times in preparation for the playoffs to not change their identity in the postseason.

Daigneault believes the regular season is meant to build a team’s identity. To drastically change that in the playoffs is a sign of wasted opportunity in the 82-game campaign.

The 39-year-old went 11 players deep in the Thunder’s close Game 1 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday. Every player played at least 11 minutes in the 94-92 victory.

Daigneault talked about the unconventional approach on Monday after the playoff win. He said it allows rotation players to get game reps and stay warm in case they are needed to step up in their roles due to injuries or adjustments.

“There's advantages to having depth,” Daigneault said. “…There's probably like a subtle pressure to cut it down arbitrarily but they all played well last night… You never know what a series is gonna deal you in terms of the hand you have to play.

“If we (played) eight guys last night, and we had to pivot to one of the other three or four that didn’t play. Now you’re like dusting them off. They haven’t gotten in a game yet. They haven’t touched the floor yet. They haven’t gotten a taste yet. And now you’re going to them and it’s somewhat reactive.”

Daigneault also added none of the 11 players who checked into the playoff contest for the Thunder was an obvious weakness, saying they all contributed in their ways.

“I didn't think there was a guy in the game that was like red alarm,” Daigneault said. “I understand there's norms but we want to expose ourselves to being the best team we can be. We're willing to do things a little differently.”

As the Thunder go deeper into the playoffs, Daigneault’s approach could be tested. Playoff rotations usually shorten the more wins teams collect. Through the first game, his philosophy has paid off.