Thunder Gameday: Crucial Matchup Out West Against Warriors

It's been a down couple of weeks for the Oklahoma City Thunder, who have dropped several games they were favorites in. Regardless, they're still in a good spot and will have a real chance to make the play-in.

With three games remaining in the regular season, Oklahoma City's next contest will be tonight against the Golden State Warriors on the road. This will be an extremely tough test for the young Thunder, as the Warriors have gone 32-8 at home this season.

It will take a fantastic game for the Thunder, but if they win they'll be nearly a lock to advance beyond Sunday.

ODDS:

The Thunder enter the day as 8-point underdogs to the Warriors, and the total over/under is 243 points.

KEYS TO THE GAME:

Golden State seemingly has OKC figured out, as the Warriors have won eight of the last nine matchups between these two teams. This shouldn't come as a surprise, but the Warriors have dominated most of contests games by knocking down a ton of 3-pointers.

The single most important thing for Oklahoma City in this game will be perimeter defense. If the Thunder allow Golden State to get hot early from beyond the arc, a large deficit could pile up quickly. Furthermore, the Warriors are playing for postseason seeding right now and are highly motivated to win.

If this game turns into a shootout, the Warriors will likely have the upper hand. Look for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to maintain his style of play in attempt to give the Thunder an edge. If he's able to be the best player on the floor tonight, Oklahoma City has a chance.

RECORDS:

Oklahoma City Thunder (41-38) vs. Golden State Warriors (38-41)

WHEN:

Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at 9:00 PM CT

LOCATION:

Chase Center - San Francisco, CA

TV/RADIO:

Bally Sports Oklahoma, NBA League Pass, 98.1 FM The Sports Animal

FINAL WORD:

Following this contest, the Thunder will continue their short road trip on Thursday against the Jazz in Utah. Meanwhile, the Warriors take on the Kings in Sacramento.

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