Oklahoma City Thunder center Kendrick Perkins has long been a source of criticism among NBA observers and Thunder fans. Perkins, who was acquired via trade in 2011, was brought in for his physical defense. However, a series of injuries limited his ability on that side of the court and he did not have the offensive skills to compensate. OKC coach Scott Brooks kept Perkins in the starting lineup these past seasons despite his limitations. However, second-year center Steven Adams is set to replace him.
Brooks announced Tuesday that Adams will assume the role of starting center this season.
"I have to be much smarter about fouling," Adams told The Oklahoman upon learning of his new role. "It's really hard to find the balance between being physical and trying not to foul. I just go up to the refs, most of the refs are good, actually all of them. They'll warn me first, 'Ah, cut that out, don't do this, don't bite them,' stuff like that. I guess I'll get in a lot of foul trouble anyway, that's what I'm thinking. Just cause I play a bit rough."
Allowing Perkins to come off the bench may help him stay healthy and be more effective come playoff time. Perkins missed the entire preseason while recovering from a quad injury. The 29-year-old's contract also expires after this season.
Perkins has averaged 5.7 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.3 blocks during his 11-year career, accroding to ESPN. Adams averaged 3.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and .7 blockers in 14.8 minutes per game last season.
