Yet, Adams' game has taken big strides this season. The big Kiwi averages more points, rebounds, steals, blocks and minutes per game than he did in the 2016-17 season and his offensive rating (team points per 100 possession with him on the court) has improved by 12 points to 126.
At the same time, his defensive rating (opponent's points per 100 possessions) has not suffered, remaining at 107.
He's also among the league leaders in rebounding and on the verge of becoming one of a small list of NBA players to average five or more offensive rebounds per game for an entire season.
Adams warrants consideration alongside Oladipo for the Most Improved Player award this season, especially when you look at their roles on their respective teams.
As NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon told the Herald on Sunday in February, Adams has managed to be relevant despite teaming up with big-name players who demand the ball.
"He's playing with three players that demand the ball and he's managed to maintain his presence," Olajuwon pointed out. "That's very tough to do."
In the space of this season, Adams has gone from overlooked role player to one of the NBA's elite in his position.
Oladipo, on the other hand, was traded to Indiana as part of the deal that saw George land in OKC and became the focal point of their offense.
He was up to the task, with his output improving across the board as more was demanded of him.
Both players have been key points in campaigns that are headed to te playoffs. Indiana have already clinched their spot in the Eastern Conference post-season, while a win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday (NZ time) put the Thunder one game closer to clinching in the West.
Statistically, Oladipo's improvement can't be overlooked, but situationally Adams surely gives the young Pacer a run for his money.
Christopher Reive's pick for the NBA's Most Improved Player award: Victor Oladipo (Indiana Pacers guard) to win ahead of Steven Adams (Oklahoma City Thunder centre) and Jrue Holiday (New Orleans Pelicans guard)
