Oklahoma City Thunder Tickets

The Oklahoma City Thunder were hoping to take a big step forward this year after a rough final season in Seattle, but things haven't gone according to plan.

Everyone knew the Thunder, who were actually the Seattle Supersonics at the time, was really going to struggle last year. They were starting their rebuilding process and did so around teenager Kevin Durant.

The team wasn't expected to compete for the playoffs this year, but significant improvement was the main goal. I suppose there has been some improvement this year, but not as much as expected.

The team has just 13 wins and is sitting in last place in their division behind the hapless and injury-riddled Minnesota Timberwolves. Yes, this is a bad team.

The problem surely isn't Durant, who still isn't old enough to drink and yet is quickly emerging as one of the league's most talented players. He is averaging 25.5 points and 6.7 rebounds per game.

The same holds true for Jeff Green, who is becoming more assertive in his second NBA season. He is the type of player every winning team needs. Anything you need done, Green will do it for you.

Rookie Russell Westbrook doesn't seem like he has the makeup to become a true point guard, but there is certainly a prominent spot on the team for him. His athleticism and energy just seem to make things happen.

Center Chris Wilcox has missed a significant number of games this season and has taken a big step back from a strong 2007-2008 campaign. You now have to wonder if he will ever be able to realize his full potential.

Damien Wilkins, Johan Petro and Kyle Weaver are solid role players who could continue to see increased minutes in the future, but they will never be star, impact players that are worthy of a spot in the starting lineup.

The rest of the team simply isn't that talented. Nick Collison and Joe Smith are nice veteran players, but they aren't making a difference on a 13-40 team.

Fans just need to be patient as the core group of young players continues to improve and gain experience. It will also help that the Thunder will get to draft yet another top player in June's draft.