Will the Thunder stay undefeated in Denver?

On By Littum

Game info

NBA.com preview | Tip off: 20:00 | Broadcast: Local/league pass

Pre-pod

On today’s podcast, John and Brandon break down the Thunder’s play, roster moves and sunny postgame behavior ahead of tonight’s game in Denver. Listen to it:

3 big things

  • Don’t play down to the Nuggets. Thunder sits on opposite sides of a rotating table. On opening night, we still considered Denver a top team. They have struggled mightily since, clinging to four wins on the season against the Raptors, Nets and Jazz. Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon are out and OKC has a +17.4 MOV for the season. Do not play down to (checking notes) 2023 masters.
  • Chat Watch. Chet Holmgren has been abysmal on defense (OKC has a 90.0 DRTG when Holmgren is on the floor), but is slowing down on offense (he hasn’t gotten 20 points since Game 3). That’s partly by design, as the second-year star has only played 23.1 minutes per game. match over the last four blowouts.
  • Cason watch. Alex Caruso was the attention-grabbing acquisition, but Cason Wallace has been stealthy as an impact player this season. Wallace appears in four of the top five 4-man Thunder lineupsand the lineups including the sophomore all have a better net rating than the regular starters do without him. The starters have also been best with Wallace at number 2 when he has started against the Bulls, Spurs and Magic.

Forecast

Let the good times roll. OKC 122 THE 99.

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