Can the Thunder's guards contain the Spurs' attack? Will their sharpshooters find rhythm? Exploiting Wembanyama's rest is key.
Oklahoma City has a chance to avenge its NBA Cup loss to San Antonio because these teams play tonight and on Christmas Day. The injury report is extensive and murky, although it will clear up closer to tipoff as the questionable tags disappear.
Check out three key matchups for this appetizer between the Thunder and Spurs.
Thunder’s Perimeter Defense
Outside of Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio’s offense is mostly generated from its guards getting downhill and attacking the rim via high ball screens or isolation possessions.
De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle are both elite in this department, and they torched Oklahoma City in the NBA Cup to the tune of a combined 44 points on 17-of-31 shooting from the field. Rookie Dylan Harper also often got to his spots but simply missed shots he typically makes.
The Thunder must do a better job of closing driving lanes and keeping the Spurs’ guards out of the paint. Otherwise, San Antonio’s offense should be able to generate quality looks, especially on kick-outs to the arc.
Cason Wallace, Luguentz Dort and Alex Caruso (if he plays) need to show why they are the best perimeter defensive trio in the NBA.
Thunder’s 3-Point Shooting
Wembanyama’s combination of size and mobility is an absolute game changer in terms of how Oklahoma City can attack San Antonio’s defense. He warps the court and makes it extremely difficult for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and company to shoot near the basket.
Knocking down triples is subsequently a crucial box to check because the Thunder cannot count on securing desirable shots inside the arc. Oklahoma City has shot 40.2% from deep over its last ten games, and the team is close to full strength.
Isaiah Joe did not play in the Thunder’s loss to the Spurs when Oklahoma City shot 24.3% from deep, so hopefully his presence stops the offense from having a poor efficiency night.
It would also be a boon if Luguentz Dort builds off his performance against Memphis and thrives from deep.
Minutes When Victor Wembanyama Rests
In the NBA Cup game, Oklahoma City was +19 when Wembanyama was off the court and -21 when he was on the court. The Thunder obviously cannot allow Wembanyama to dominate again, but it’s also important to convincingly win the Luke Kornet minutes. This gives Oklahoma City a buffer and helps it withstand another potentially great game from San Antonio’s extraterrestrial superstar.