Even without Leonard and Parker, who are currently out injured, the Spurs are still a strong team.
Keys to the Game
Transition Offense – The Spurs are a tough defensive team and they are at their best when they settle into the half-court defense. For this reason, the Thunder will have to play at a fast pace, and try to use the transition offense as their main weapon. This doesn’t mean Oklahoma City should take shots early in the clock unless they are good shots, but they should use their athleticism as an advantage to speed up the pace of the game.
Rebound – The Spurs are ranked third in grabbing offensive rebounds with 11.4 per game. The Thunder, on the other side, are struggling this season under the rebounding aspect. In order to do not give up too many second opportunities, which could kill the defensive effort, it will be fundamental to have everyone focused on boxing out.
Physicality – As I mentioned in the previous two keys, Oklahoma City will have to be very physical on both ends of the floor. The Thunder are indeed stronger, faster, and more athletic than the Spurs, they can use this as an advantage to exploit the Spurs’ weakness.
Injury Report
Oklahoma City Thunder
- N/A
San Antonio Spurs
- Kawhi Leonard (Quadriceps – Expected to be out until at least Nov. 20th)
- Tony Parker (Quadriceps – Expected to be out until at least Nov. 20th)
- Derrick White (Wrist – Expected to be out until at least Jan. 21st)
Teams Stats
Oklahoma City Thunder
PPG 102.9 – OPP PTS 97.1
FG% 44.5 – 3PT% 35.1 – FT% 74.1
APG 20.8 – RPG 42.1 – TOV 15.2
San Antonio Spurs
PPG 101.5– OPP PTS 98.9
FG% 45.2 – 3PT% 36.9 – FT% 76.3
APG 22.9 – RPG 45.7– TOV 14.6
Photo by Zach Beeker | OKC Thunder
Excellent.