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
