A conversation took place Saturday night between Nerlens Noel and newcomer Markieff Morris as the Thunder were playing the Sacramento Kings.

The gist of the message was the two players know they can help strengthen the frontcourt in the second unit. Morris has been on the roster for only three games so they know it will take time.

The potential is there, though.

Noel and Morris left their fingerprints on Tuesday night’s game against the Denver Nuggets. Although the Thunder lost 121-112, Noel and Morris each helped spark a late fourth-quarter run that ultimately fell short.

Noel finished the game with seven points and five rebounds while Morris added six points and three rebounds in just under 14 minutes of work. The two players finished a combined plus-29 on the court Tuesday night — only four Thunder players finished as a positive from the floor.

While Morris continues to get adjusted to his new team, he said after the game that playing basketball is natural to him and added that he and Noel are vital to the Thunder.

Nerlens is a high-IQ basketball player. He’s protecting the rim. … That’s what we need from the bench just come out there and change the energy and make a push every game.

As for that conversation on Saturday, Noel said the Thunder just need to get Morris up to speed and continue to do what they are doing.

[If] we keep doing what we’re doing, working on the chemistry, we’ll be a lethal frontcourt. I think as we continue with that, he will continue to get acclimated in the system, more comfortable and his looks will continue to be there.

The sample size has been small for Morris so far but he is showing signs that he can contribute with the Thunder. It is something that won’t happen overnight, of course, so the Thunder will likely be patient.

Morris will get his next chance with the Thunder on Thursday against the Philadelphia 76ers.