Game 27 Preview: Thunder vs Pacers

This is obviously a game not like the others. It definitely has a special meaning for Paul George at the least.

The teams met already back in October in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder won 114-96. However, tonight will be George’s first return to Indiana against his former team. He is expecting to be booed and this is likely to happen.


Keys To The Game

Contain Oladipo –  It’s easier to be said than done because Victor Oladipo his having his best season since he entered the NBA. He is averaging 24.5 points (FG 48.5%, 3PT 44.4%, FT 77.3%), 5.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists. Unfortunately for the Thunder, Andre Roberson will be still out with the ankle injury. It will require a full team effort to stop the Pacers’ star.

Three-Point Line Coverage – The Pacers are ranked second in the NBA in three-point percentage at 39.5%. On Monday, the Thunder let the Hornets shoot 13-25 from behind the arc, that’s 52%. Oklahoma City will have to do an outstanding job to take the three-pointers away from Indiana if they want to succeed.

Don’t Overthink – Many times this season, Thunder’s players seemed to overthink their tasks, especially players like Westbrook, George, and Anthony. The easy solution is probably to play the game with a free mind, let the game come to you, and stick to the coach’s game plan.


Injury Report

Oklahoma City Thunder

  • Andre Roberson – Ankle (Day to day)

Indiana Pacers 

  • Darren Collison – Knee (Game time decision)
  • Glen Robinson III – Ankle (Expected to be out at least until Jan 15th.)
  • Edmon Summer – Knee (Expected to be out at least until Feb 1st)

Teams Stats

Oklahoma City Thunder

PPG 101.8 – OPP PTS 99.6
FG% 43.6 – 3PT% 33.9 – FT% 72.3
APG 20.6 – RPG 43.4 – TOV 15.1

Indiana Pacers

PPG 109.0 – OPP PTS 107.5
FG% 48.0 – 3PT% 39.5 – FT% 76.9
APG 23.3 – RPG 42.6– TOV 14.0

Cover Photo by Layne Murdoch/NBAE via Getty Images

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