The Oklahoma City Thunder take on the 2-4 Orlando Magic tonight and this is one of those trap games. Although both teams are 2-4, the Thunder are better than what their record shows and should win this game handily. Here are the three keys for the Thunder in tonight’s game to get a win.
1. CONTINUE TO PLAY GREAT DEFENSE
This is the most important key to the game. The Thunder are currently the 4th best defensive team in the NBA and the Magic are currently the worst offensive team in the NBA. It’s a perfect storm for the Thunder. A lot of the time, teams look at how bad an opponent is and play down to their level so it’s key to bring the same defensive intensity to the game as the last one against the Pelicans.
2. PROTECT THE PAINT
This one could go with playing great defense, but it has to be a separate key because three of the Magic’s four best players are big men in Aaron Gordon, Johnathan Issac, and all-star Nikola Vucevic. Vucevic in particular is a type of big man that gives Steven Adams, who is returning to the lineup tonight, problems because he can step out and shoot a three. He hasn’t shot it well so far this season but this could be the game he gets not. All three big men start for the Magic and all three can step out and hit a three making this a somewhat difficult matchup for the Thunder who are small compared to the Magic. Not letting these guys get going will be extremely key to getting a victory.
3. GET THE OFFENSE GOING
The Thunder offense has struggled at times this season and there have been games where they’ve relied on Danilo Gallinari, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and even Dennis Schroeder some. Last game against the Pelicans, they got huge contributions from rookie Darius Bazley and Hamidou Diallo. That has to continue because Gallinari and Gilgeous-Alexander won’t always be on. Guys like Chris Paul and especially Terrance Ferguson have to be more consistent with their offense. Also, the Magic are currently the 5th ranked defense in the NBA. They might not be able to shoot but they can play defense. If the Thunder can’t get their offense going against one of the leagues best, it could be a very low scoring game.
It’s going to be a very good defensive game and that often bores fans. Especially when neither team has a superstar. It’s not exactly a game fans circled on their calendar but still has the possibilities to be an exciting game.
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