Game Preview: OKC Thunder continue road swing against the Philadelphia 76ers

The Thunder, having won five of their last seven games, now find themselves 8th in the Western Conference. They look to continue this good run of form when they play the struggling Sixers tonight at Wells Fargo Center.

The OKC Thunder opened their three-game road swing with a 100-95 win over the Indiana Pacers Wednesday night in Paul George’s return to Indianapolis. Steven Adams continued his impressive December, finishing with 23 points and 13 rebounds but it was a last-minute Alex Abrines tip and a PG13 steal that ultimately sealed the game. Carmelo Anthony chipped in 12 points while Russell Westbrook had his eighth triple-double of the season, finishing with 10 points, 17 rebounds and 12 assists.

(Note: This opening page is contributed by author Yams who along with Lawrence George stepped in to help when Windows 10 decided to make someone’s life miserable. Thank you to both of them.)

Philadelphia’s season is somewhat similar to OKC’s. Touted to finish near the top of the Eastern Conference, the 76ers have been marred by inconsistent play. After losing four straight games, they defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 118-112 in overtime at Target Center on Tuesday night. Big man Joel Embiid and veteran guard J.J Redick combined for 54 points on 45 percent shooting and shot 22-23 from the free throw line.

This is a clash of two opposites. The Thunder have many experienced players struggling with chemistry at the minute while the Sixers are young, exciting and on the rise. Offensively, the Thunder have struggled all season long, averaging a poultry 101.7 points per game (23rd) with an offensive rating of 101.4 (24th).

On the contrary, the 76ers are humming on offense. Philly amass an impressive 108.7 points per game (sixth) with an offensive efficiency rating of 104.6 (15th). Keeping Embiid in check will be a priority as he is the life and soul of the team.

Lets take a look at what OKC must do to walk out with the W.