Game Day Preview: OKC Thunder host the Trail Blazers in season finale
By Alex Mcewen
Contain McCollum
Much like Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors McCollum is key to unlocking the Blazers offense. In wins McCollum averages (23.3) points per game compared to (18.9) points per game in losses.
This season in three games against the Thunder (25.7) points per game his third most against any West opponent. While shooting (51.8%) his second highest field goal percentage against West teams.
If OKC can crack the code to stopping McCollum, maybe they can crack the code to defeating the Blazers.
Involve Melo
Contradictory to my prior statements I have made about Carmelo Anthony this season, this matchup is unique. Melo has played 57 out of a possible 144 minutes of game time against the Blazers this season.
Despite Melo being minus -15 in the +/- in his 57 minutes against Portland this season, which is the second best mark of the traditional starters plus Corey Brewer.
Melo has played well against the Blazers shooting (48.1%) overall, his fourth best mark against all West teams and (38.5%) from the perimeter, his fifth best mark against West teams.
If Carmelo doesn’t rest (unlikely) or get ejected (also unlikely) maybe he can continue his hot shooting against the Blazers.
Must read: how injuries affect each team down the stretch
YGTMYFT
YGTMYFT is a popular acronym on basketball twitter meaning “you got to make your free throws”. The acronym should probably be permanently engraved next to the Thunder’s name. after this season.
As I noted yesterday the OKC Thunder’s poor foul shooting could be their fatal flaw. In their three losses to Portland they missed seven foul shots in each game.
Considering Oklahoma City lost by four, eight, and 11 points respectively so leaving seven points at the line was very costly for the Thunder. If OKC can capitalize at the line tonight they will have a chance to record their first victory over Portland tonight.