Thunder Gameday: OKC Takes On Orlando Prior to All-Star Break
After a blowout loss to the Dallas Mavericks over the weekend, Oklahoma City was able to recalibrate, putting together a solid two-way performance and break Sacramento’s eight-game win-streak over OKC.
Now, the team has just one game left before a much-needed All-Star break, which comes conveniently after one of the most tightly-packed January schedules in NBA history.
Still, with stars like Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and more, Orlando will be no pushover.
ODDS:
The Thunder enter the day as 2.5-point favorites against the Magic, and the total over/under is 223.5 points.
KEYS TO THE GAME:
In order to leave with a victory over the Magic tonight, Oklahoma City will have to continue to play the way that yielded 36 early wins.
Likely due to the aforementioned January fatigue, OKC's defense has looked lackadaisical at times in the recent stretch, and it's allowed teams to remain comfortable on the offensive end.
To stay true to their identity, the Thunder will need to give max effort on defense, and can't allow Banchero, Wagner and the Magic's other offensive weapons to settle into rhythm.
Offensively, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren will be looked at to carry the load, but others will have to hit open shots.
RECORDS:
Oklahoma City Thunder (36-17) vs. Orlando Magic (29-24)
INJURIES:
Check out our live injury tracker, along with our game day injury report that will release later today.
WHEN:
6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024
LOCATION:
Kia Center, Orlando, FL
TV/RADIO:
Bally Sports Oklahoma, NBA League Pass, 98.1 FM The Sports Animal
Live Stream: fuboTV (Start Your Free Trial)
FINAL WORD:
Despite several of its players being involved, the All-Star break is set to do wonders for the Thunder. Still, entering that break riding a two-game win-streak rather than occupying the loss column would feel better.
If OKC can take care of business Tuesday, they can head into break as the Western Conference’s outright No. 2 seed.
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