Thunder Rookie Stirtz Scores 35 in First Two Preseason Games

Oklahoma City rookie Bennett Stirtz scored 15 points and had six assists against New Orleans, then added 20 points against Milwaukee in his first two preseason outings. He received expanded opportunities while key Thunder players were unavailable and returned to a reserve role when they played. Stirtz is competing for regular-season minutes in a crowded backcourt. Jared McCain also started against New Orleans while regular starters rested; he averaged 10.4 points in 18 minutes per game for Oklahoma City last season.